I'm using the Nova launcher and app drawer, but I think there was a way to hide, delete, or disable apps in the stock app drawer. Perhaps you somehow did something to it. Try looking for it in Settings > Apps > All (swipe screen right to left to get to 'All'). If you see 'Email' touch it see what is there. If it has been disabled, enable it and maybe clear cache also. If it is not there, you may have to copy EmailGoogle.apk and EmailGoogle.odex into the /system/app and set permissions. You need to be rooted to do that and you need the two files for your OS version. I just updated to 4.2.2 and I could send you the files, but they may not work is you're not on 4.2.2.
Did you look at the People app in terms of adding contacts?