DRUMHELLER, MAXLEY WOLFE March 10, 1926 to October 24, 2012 Maxley Wolfe Drumheller (Lt. CMDR Retired), 86, died October 24, 2012, with his family by his side in San Diego, California. Max was born March 6, 1926, in Lynchburg, Virginia, to John Adam and Saddie Will Drumheller of Lynchburg, Virginia . Max left Lynchburg, Virginia, on his 17th birthday to enlist in the United States Navy. During World War II, he served as a Sonarman aboard the destroyer USS Canfield (DE-262) in the South Pacific. In 1954, Max entered Officer Candidate School and on completion received his commission as Ensign. He served 27 years in combat in World War II, Korean War and 3 tours in the Vietnam War. In 1972, Max graduated with honors from Randolph-Macon Women's College in Lynchburg. He was the first male degree candidate in the 100+ year history of the college. In 1975, he pursued a career as Administrative Analyst with the City of San Diego. Max is survived by 4 daughters, Darlene Matheis, Julie Grajeda, Donna Gaylord and Jamie Battaglia; three sons, Dennis Drumheller, Mark Drumheller and Bruce Drumheller; and 19 grandchildren. Max was a wonderful person by all that knew him. He was a wonderful father and grandfather. We will always hold him in our hearts . A military honors service and inurnment will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, November 30, at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery.
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My deepest sympathy to Max's family .I enjoyed seeing Max at our ECGlass high school reunion.He was special
Kathleen Beatrice
November 30, 2012
I enjoyed seeing Max at our ECGlass high school reunion.So sorry to hear of his death.He was a special person
Kathleen Beatrice
November 30, 2012
LCDR Drumheller was my XO aboard the USS Bluebird (MSC121). We were both from Lynchburg, and it was an honor to serve with him, and under his command.
Cliff Kirkpatrick
November 30, 2012
Grandpa, you will be forever missed and I will always cherish the times I was lucky enough to spend with you (especially our pizza hut trip). I only wish I was able to say good bye. Your daughter Donna, grandkids Jay, Bryan, myself, and Emily and great grandson Jaidin love you and will greatly miss you. Until we meet again. I love you.
Shawn Marie Gaylord
November 15, 2012
Thank you for being My Grandpa.. The stories you would tell and the history lessons you would teach to anyone that would listen.. I love you sir.
j schuyler
November 13, 2012
We would like to extend our deepest condolences to the family of Retired Lt. Commander Drumheller. We are grateful for his many years of service in the US Navy. His commitment to the freedom and security of his grandchildren and generations to come is a great legacy. We pray that you may find comfort and peace from the heart of God during your grief, and may continue to celebrate his life with many wonderful memories. God bless you.
Chaplain Stephen and Teresa Zachary
November 9, 2012
One of the best leaders in my 24 years in the Navy. CWO.Frank L Thompson. VT
November 6, 2012
I was blessed to have Max as my government teacher as a senior in high school. He was inspirational and honest. I am also proud to be a friend of his daughter, Julie. My prayers are with you.
Rory Murphy
November 6, 2012
Mr. Drumheller will be remebered fondly. I enjoyed attending meetings with him. What a bright,intelligent man who reminded my so much of my own father. My heartfelt apologies for the loss of such a dynamic personality.
Darin Trammell
November 5, 2012
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