Alan Drinan

Alan H. Drinan, 79, of Enfield, departed from this world on February 6, 2024, at Johnson Memorial Medical Center, leaving behind a legacy of profound impact and cherished memories. Born and raised in Springfield, Massachusetts, Alan was the son of the late Arthur R. Drinan and Julia Rose (Decker) Drinan.
Alan's journey through life was one of remarkable achievement and unwavering dedication to service and learning. After completing his high school education, he embarked on a path of higher learning, attending Tufts University on a Navy NROTC scholarship. He distinguished himself as Salutatorian, graduating in 1966 with a degree in electrical engineering and a minor in music.
Following graduation, Alan's commitment to service led him to the deck of the USS Constitution, where he was commissioned into the US Navy. Over the next five years, he served under Admiral Hyman Rickover at Naval Reactors, contributing his expertise to the design and procurement of nuclear reactor plant systems for submarines and surface ships. In 1971, Alan made the decision to further his education, attending the Harvard Business School MBA program.
Alan's professional journey took him to Southern California, where he spent 15 years employed in corporate executive marketing positions. In 1987, he embarked on a new chapter, relocating to Kauai, where he built a home at Princeville Heights. During the 1990s, he became a faculty member at the University of Hawaii, teaching business and economics courses at Kauai Community College and coordinating visitor industry training classes for employees of Kauai's tourism industry.
A true humanitarian, Alan's commitment to service extended beyond his professional endeavors. He was deeply involved in Rotary International, serving as President of the Kapaa Rotary club during a critical recovery year in 1993-1994. His leadership and dedication led to the establishment of the Rotary club of Hanalei Bay in 1994, a testament to his passion for community building and philanthropy. Later, after relocating to Honolulu, Alan continued his Rotary service, eventually joining the Enfield Rotary club upon returning to New England, where he found love with his wife, Martha McLeod, in 2008. Alan was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow recipient, reflecting his commitment to Rotary's mission of service above self.
In addition to his professional and service accomplishments, Alan was a man of diverse interests and talents. He found joy in traveling the world, singing with passion, exploring genealogy and history, and embracing the beauty of nature through skiing and outdoor adventures. His love for music was cultivated from an early age, and he shared his melodic voice and musical talents as a member of Tufts University's a cappella group, the Beelzebubs.
Besides his wife Martha, Alan leaves two sons, David Drinan and his wife Puje of San Francisco, CA, Daniel Drinan of Seymour, CT, a brother David R. Drinan and his wife Christine of Somers, CT, two step-children, Brett Alan Nees and Story Anne Neesingham, Nephews and Nieces, Sean Drinan and his wife Kara Wolters, Kate Kass and her husband Steve, Debora Roberts Anzeze, Melody Drinan, and Richard Drinan and his wife Mary. He also leaves many great nieces and nephews. Alan was predeceased by a brother Arthur R. Drinan.
Visitation hours to honor Alan's life will be held from 5 to 7 PM, followed by a celebration of life at 7 PM on Thursday, February 15, 2024, at Leete Stevens Enfield Chapels, 61 South Road, Enfield. Military Honors will be rendered by the U.S. Navy. Alan's burial will be private, in accordance with his wishes. In lieu of flowers, donations in Alan's memory may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.
Alan will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. His spirit will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. A live-streaming link will be provided on his Leete-Stevens obituary page prior to the service beginning. To share online condolences and fond memories, please visit www.leetestevens.com.