Harold "Spider" E. Draves

Harold “Spider” E. Draves, 73 of Mishawaka, passed away at home on Friday, June 10, 2022.

Spider was born December 29, 1948 in Mishawaka to the late Henry Draves, Sr. and Gowanga (Harris) Draves. He was a graduate of Mishawaka High School. He served his country earning the rank of Sergeant in the US Marine Corps in 1969 and 1970.

Spider had a life-long love and fascination with fireworks. For 34 years he owned and operated Spiderworks Fireworks in Mishawaka. He was member of the Indiana Fireworks Association and Indiana Fireworks Dealer Association. Spider also belonged to the Pyrotechnics Guild International as well as numerous other fireworks associations throughout the country. Spider was a life member of Marine Corps League Detachment #095 and also a life member of VFW #360. He belonged to American Legion #161 in Mishawaka as well as DAV-Elkhart and VVA #7027. Other memberships included the Mishawaka Alumni Association and the BK Club.

Spider married the former Deborah Lema on January 8, 2002. Deb preceded him in death along with a step-daughter, Samantha Lema; brothers, Dennis Draves and Henry Draves, Jr.; infant sister, Myrnia Marie Draves; and beloved dog, Bumpus.

Spider is survived by a daughter, Vanessa (Jason DeLaurelle) Draves; grandchildren, Isabella, Griffin, Austen (Kourtney), Christopher, Javonte and LaVonia; a great grandchild, Alaric; a brother, Fred Draves; as well as all the friends he has adopted as children and grandchildren over the years.

A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held from 4 to 8 pm on Thursday, June 23, at VFW #360, 1307 E. Jefferson Blvd., Mishawaka, with Military Honors at 6 pm.

Memorial donations are suggested to Pet Refuge or Marine Corps League Detachment #095.

Arrangements are under the care of Goethals & Wells Funeral Home, Mishawaka.