Richard A. Drew

Richard Alexander Drew – lifelong resident of Crystal Lake, passed away peacefully January 22, 2021 after his battle with Parkinson’s.

Born September 15, 1946 in Elmhurst, IL to Arthur and Jeanette Drew.  Spent his adolescent year growing up in Crystal Lake graduating from Central High School class of 1965. Richard proudly served in the U.S. Air Force during Vietnam War.

Richard is survived by his daughter, Rachel and son-in-law Gregory Sommers; grandchildren, Drew, Matthew, and Brooke Sommers; sisters, Susan Steen and Carol Hardy; and dear friends, Ron Etherton, Charlie Schotz and Joann Foote.  He was preceded in death by his daughter, Rebecca Drew; brother, Kenneth Drew; and his parents.

He will be remembered for is sense of humor, great dance moves and his bright blue eyes. He enjoyed the small pleasures in life, running in the Algonquin Founder Days 5K yearly; hiking, mountain biking and cross-country skiing on the trails in Veterans Acres Park; and camping with family and friends. Rick was a die-hard Chicago Cubs and Bears fan and an avid music lover. You could always run into him at The Cottage watching a game, or a local concerts in the parks with friends.

In his later years, when Parkinson’s Disease robbed him of his strength and stamina, it also gave him a softness we all remember and treasure. During his time at Captain James A Lovell Federal Health Care Center, he allowed those around him to care and love him as he has done for so many prior. The family wishes to thank the staff and friends at Green House 202 for their thoughtful services and tender care.

A celebration of Life for Richard will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider tribute donation to Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkin’s Research and/or The Green House Project for Veterans.