Willard “Creed” Lake, 61, of Burnsville, passed away on Monday, July 26, 2021 outside, after a hard day’s work.

Creed was born August 6, 1959 in Buckhannon to Violet Arbogast and the late Willard Clenley Lake.

In addition to his father he is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Mildred and Jennings Lake and maternal grandparents, Darrell and Murriel Arbogast.

Creed’s work ethic started when he bailed hay as a young kid.  In school, he worked hard as the yearbook editor.  He was also the smartest one in school, and his friends envied his ability to “just know all the answers”.  He worked hard in the United States Army after high school as he served his county on the other side of the ocean.  He worked hard building railroads across the United States.  When he settled back home in Burnsville he worked hard as a landscaper.  And although he worked hard his whole life, he played just as hard.  He was an old hippie at heart.  He loved good music and having a good time.  When he was young he attended concerts and festivals at venues such as Aunt Minnie’s Farm in Stumptown, WV back in the 1970’s.  His record collection rivals any music lover over the decades.  Although Creed suffered heart issues in the past year, he still lived like the AC/DC line “No stop sign, no speed limit.  Nobody’s gonna slow me down” from the Highway to Hell album.  But he was a good soul and Heaven bound for sure.  We will miss our brother and son.

Creed will be forever remembered by his mother, Violet Cogar; brother, Craig Lake; sisters, Cristy Murray, Crystal Godfrey, Cheryl Snider, Carolyn Cosner; many nieces, nephews and grandnieces and grandnephews; and especially his niece, Chelsea Cosner, who was a caregiver and friend to him; and special friend, Judy.

Creed’s visitation will be private.

Funeral service will be 2 P.M. Sunday, August 1, 2021 at Roach Funeral Home, Gassaway with Pastor Chris Cosner officiating where all are welcome.

Burial with military graveside rites will follow in the Kniceley Cemetery, Caress.

Words of comfort and fond memories may be extended to the family at www.roachfuneralhome.com.