Francis Leslie "Frank" Drews

Frank Drews, age 97, passed away peacefully at his home in Sonoma, California on November 21, 2023. He was surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was born on May 16, 1926, to Frank and Caroline Drews in San Francisco, California, the first born of three children. He graduated from St. Ignatius High School in 1944. After graduation he enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps. And served as a radio operator on B-25’s and C-47’s, during the occupation of Japan. Upon returning home, he married his High School sweetheart in 1947, Veryl Marie Pitto his wife of 66 years. Together they raised four children and created a family that included relatives, neighbors, and friends.

Frank began his career with the Post Office then MJB Coffee but soon took a position as Traffic Manager for Crown Zellerbach Paper Company. Promotions moved him from the Bay area to Southern California, but by 1961 the family returned to the Bay Area settling in Terra Linda. Frank took over operations of Norsk Pacific Steamship Company a shipping subsidiary of Crown Zellerbach eventually becoming its President. The job brought him to the far reaches of the Amazon, Europe and Asia. He retired from Crown and Norsk Pacific at 55 and began a consulting career chartering ships for British Columbia Forest Products and Crofton Paper.

In 1989, he and Veryl moved to Oakmont to begin a retirement that included golf, traveling, and attending grandchildren’s baseball, soccer, softball, volleyball games and school events. He loved family vacations at Pinecrest Lake, Donner Lake, and Boulder Creek.

Frank was an avid Giants, 49er, and Warriors fan. He served on the Marin Boys Club Pop Warner Board of Directors, St. Isabella’s Men’s Club, Marin Catholic Booster’s Club, Oakmont Homeowner’s Association and the Star of the Valley Men’s Club.

Frank was a devout Catholic and was most proud of his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Veryl and brother Paul. Frank is survived by his sister Carol, children; Mike (Lou Ann), Karen Chisholm (Jim), Dave (Diane), Kevin (Julie). Grandchildren; Matt (Liz), Lisa (Mike), Brian (April), Carson (Kerri), Casey, Cody (Emily), Catherine, Christina (Joey), Danielle (Jimmy), Cameron, Tyler, and Erik. He was blessed with nine great-grandchildren.

The family wishes to thank his wonderful full-time care-giving team, Dr. James Verducci, Pauliasi, Samuela, Raouli, and Miguel. We are grateful for the hospitality at the Sonoma Hills Retirement Home.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at Star of the Valley Catholic Church, 545 White Oak Drive, Santa Rosa, California on December 15, 10:00 am. A reception will be held immediately following Mass at the Parish Hall. Donations may be made to Hanna Boys Center or a charity of your choice.

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