Obituary of David P. Drew

    Mr. David P. Drew, 79, of Utica, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2024, in the eternal presence and love of past and present family and friends.

    David was born in Utica, on July 27, 1944, the son of Harvey L. and Sylvia (Twadell) Drew. He was educated locally, graduating from UFA in 1962 and Mohawk Valley Community College with a degree in electrical engineering in 1964. He proudly served in the US Army reserves from 1966-1972. David fully engaged in his career working in various positions in Germany as well as the states. Favorite projects he participated in included (1966) Military Night Vision Recon Camera for Dragon Plane, (1973) Link Trainer F4F Trainer Program for Navy in West Germany, (1974) Canadian Forces Samson Project, and (1975) GE Vulcan Anti-aircraft Radar Guided Gun. David was a “go to” man to resolve problems as a recognized “trouble shooter” in his career. David was an avid history buff, longtime member of the Whitesboro History Club and his home was essentially a library in itself. He was a life member of the Institute of Electrical Electronic Engineers, Institute of Radio Engineers, Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association, American Ordinance Society and White Lake Shores Association. David took particular pride in being one of the “founding fathers” of the G.E. Ski Club in the 1960’s, still in existence today. He loved being on top of a mountain, ready to plow through the fresh snow. He was also an avid participant in the Tramp and Trail Club, having served as president. Here, the hikes, bikes, kayaks and ski trips were too numerous too mention. He loved reminiscing about the bike trips he led through Ireland and the misadventures had. Loved by all for his good nature and adventurous hikes he led, a “Dave Drew” hike was both feared and revered! Dave also truly enjoyed his time at White Lake and his camp.

     Later in life, referring to her as “my sweetheart”, Sue Lemery came into his life. Many more adventures were had. Together they enjoyed going to book sales, garage sales, dinners out, attending local plays, hiking, biking and kayak trips.

     Dave was predeceased by his two brothers, Ronald Drew and Jack Drew and is survived by two nephews, Kenneth Drew and Michael Drew both of Harrison, TN; his sweetheart, Sue Lemery of Sauquoit, as well as the Will family; Also surviving are cousins, Donna and Bob (deceased), Michael and Denise, and David and Jan who were all an important part of his life, whether snowmobiling, visits at camp or delicious dinners prepared by Donna.

     Relatives and friend are respectfully invited to David funeral service on Wednesday (today) January 24, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at Grace Church, 6 Elizabeth St., Utica. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the funeral service. He will be laid to rest in Crown Hill Memorial Park in Kirkland. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675-8516 or at www.woundedwarriorproject.org

     A heartfelt thank you is extended to Dick (deceased) and Mary Lou, Marty, Gail and Chuck, Tom and Karen, Jim P., Claudia, Don F. and Romeo, as well as a host of additional friends, for many years of friendship you shared with David. A special thank you to Dr. George Kozminski for the wonderful care you provided to David for a good part of his life.