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Drew Smith Obituary
Drew Herrick Smith, 60, died Sunday, December 21, 2008 at his home in Pacific Beach, California, of cancer.
He is survived by his mother, Jean Smith of Ohio; daughter, Gitanah (Scott) Noble of Colorado; fiancé Linda Livingston of San Diego; sister, Debbie (Denny) VanSickle; and brother, Dean (Carrie) Smith of Ohio; nephews and nieces, Neil Sorensen, Kaia and Casey Smith. He was preceded in death by father, Philip Smith.
Drew was a master glassblower for 37 years. He was an amazing host and gourmet chef who loved to entertain friends and family in his home by preparing exotic foods. He had a passion for life and anything it offered. He still kept in contact with his beloved classmates of Revere High School ('66), Ashland and Kent State Universities. He taught glassblowing at Columbus College of Art and Design and operated Smith Glasshouse studios in Akron, Ohio, Logan, Ohio, and at his New Heights Gallery in Tampa, Fla. Drew settled in San Diego after living in Jamaica for several years. He continued glass-blowing, sculpture, painting, and teaching in studios located in both San Diego and San Marcos, Calif., until just weeks before his passing. His blown glass and sculptural works have been exhibited at numerous locations throughout the U.S., Europe and Japan, with permanent collections in various museums, including the Corning and the Smithsonian Museums.
Drew enjoyed living life to its fullest. From his Cadillac hearse that he drove in high school, to his unique interpretation of motorcycle helmet laws, his infamous parties, his skiing, kayaking or giant squid fishing, he always brought creative twists to life. Above all, Drew treasured his family, fiancé, a multitude of loving friends and cousins, as well as the arts and crafts community and art patrons.
No funeral or memorial service will be held. His life was celebrated in pre-memorial parties held during the past several months in the Akron, Logan and San Diego areas. Gifts in his memory may be made to CERF (Craft Emergency Relief Foundation) at P.O. Box 838, Montpelier, Vermont 05601.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Drew Smith
Sponsored by Dean Smith & Jan Mayer.
Jim Divoky
July 20, 2020
Just found out about Drew's passing. He was a friend from the early 70's at Kent State. I only have good memories of shared times and recall his Afro wig helmet that virtually ensured being stopped by the police when he rode. Unfortunately I've lost the only piece of his glass I had which he gave me in exchange for some record albums. It's good to hear of his successful career and the loving impact he's had on the people he's met along the way.
Karmon Whitaker
November 16, 2014
I searched today 11/2014 for Drew and saw of his passing I worked in his studio in Logan,Ohio acid etching and grinding down pieces of his beautiful sculptures. He was full of life and always smiling ?? taught me alot enjoyed my time working around him.We spent much time together as there was a bunch of us from Hide Away Hills that always hung out together. He was def. A bright and shining light full of talent . You are missed but never forgotten.
David Keller
August 1, 2013
To Drew and All Who Have Posted Here -
After only recently reading the news of such a loss to the art world, I can only say that the outpouring of shared 'Smithperiences'
posted here are (with celestial irony, collective testament as myriad, colorful and enduring as the man's work itself) best summed-up in three quotes by the late great Jim Morrison:
"O great creator of being, grant us one more hour to perform our art and perfect our lives.”
"A friend is someone who gives you total freedom to be yourself";
"There may be a time when we'll attend Weather Theaters to recall the sensation of rain."
(The last one I felt when I read the news of your passing.)
- David Keller
Fairlawn, OH
Old Blind Date Of Years Yonder...Early 1980's!
Lorrayne Mills
April 29, 2013
Dear Drew ~ We were dear friends back in the early 1980's. We were set up on a blind date in NYC for one of your showings for an Estee Lauder exhibit at Sachs 5th Avenue, far from my personality, but a divine experience. We met at The Drake Hotel, a 5 star restaurant with a new chef that evening.
For every small morsel of carefully prepared food on our plates, it was a Universe of stars for every bite we ate. I know you remember because we had the silliest outlandish of a delectable time, strangers and new bright comrades, yet in passing.
I might have been in my early 20's, a little blurry now, and after our initial meetings in NY, not long after too many fleeting phone conversations, you flew me from my home in Long Island, NY to your heavenly retreat in Logan Ohio.
I had experiences and views of a landscape of life, heightened alternatives and environment I had never known or dreamed of before, not to mention your glass blowing studio in the barn next to your house I felt honoured to interview you in and photograph...even though I didn't know a newspaper, journal or magazine to submit it in, very naiive and kind of young.
Your home and land was filled with warmth, love, creativity and laughter from every possible neighbor that seemed to feel to visit you whenever they could...complete nourishment for a soul in a day.
On my visit to your world, you rode me on your motorcycle in the rain up and down hills, through forests, by a lake with intermittent open skies to a flower farm for a wine tasting and feast of a close friend of yours..over hill and dale! Whew! It was an ecstatic experience, if but nothing but that part of the journey....but there was more to come and visiting amzing people and friends along the way.
That evening after the wine tasting meal and feast, out on the large grassy hill at your friends home we stayed over, in a clear open sky, this suburban Long Island girly girl saw and felt the vastness of the stars and cosmic night skies for the first time in her life! I have never forgotten that night and recount this experience o many. You were sleeping, but my guide to this experience...As well I think I left my cream white lace shoes there that might have looked more appropriate to a wedding at the time...all kind of a cheeky romantic movie!
Your spirit always stayed with me over the last few decades, and this morning I had a pressing feeling to look you up on Facebook to check in and say hi.
My boyfriend, who also grew up in Ohio, said he had a feeling when we were going to look you up, and there he showed me online you left this world back in 2008.
Yikes brother, it's 2013! I guess I'm 4 1/2 years late for the check in! Oh dear! and Hmmm! But,... I do know You are as well checking in with me! I know you are well. I know you are cared for. I know you are rewarded for your eternal soul and sharing your Bright Spirit I was maybe clueless about understanding in those years we communicated and were briefly together.
I will sincerely say after reading more about you from others online, I know I was lucky to have known you and that we have do have a friendship in Spirit. You were with me and I thank you! You are felt Spirit that was Drew Smith.
By the way my current boyfriend who I am very fond with...his last name is Smith too!!! What's that about? Did you set that up? And as you he is pretty famous in his art form. Hmmm!
Lovin' you Beautiful One! Thankyou! Thankyou! Thankyou! Thankyou!... For impacting my world.
In Love And Care And Respect Always loving Wild One! True Eternal Blessings... in Love and Truth! Lorrayne D. Mills Mwah!!!! XO
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Julia McLat-Winfree
July 4, 2012
RIP Drew God bless your family & all who loved you. You were all that everyone has shared here & more....wonderful artist & kind friend. May Adonai continue to give shalom to your precious family.
May 25, 2012
I knew Drew at the beginning - Akron, Ohio in Highland Square - I loved him then and am glad to have had him in my life and I am sorry to hear so late of his passing - He will be remembered -
Molly
Iridescent Goblet
Suzie Scott
May 16, 2011
Writing from the Society for Contemporary Craft (formerly The Store for Art in Crafts) in Pittsburgh, PA, and just learned of Drew Smith's death. We have a lovely goblet of his in our permanent collection that was acquired in 1979 (inscribed © Smith 1978). The piece was shown: Art in Modern Handcrafts, Carnegie Museum of Art, Pittsburgh, PA 1979; Pennsylvania Crafts Today, Penn Memorial Museum, Harrisburg, PA 1979 for Thornburgh inauguration;Art in Modern Handcrafts, traveling exhibition, Pennsylvania, PA 1980. We feel very privileged to have his work in the collection. His fine work lives on and will be a reminder of the artist and person who created them.
Mimi Reimel
April 13, 2011
We are sorry to belatedly learn of Drew Smith's death. We fell in love with his pieces at the 1997 Philadelphia Home Show, and Drew was glad to explain his art and the glass process to us. We purchased "Jungle Spirit" - one of his "spirit forms" of iron & glass. "Harry" has stood beside our front door in Bucks County, PA, ever since giving a cheery "high five" greeting to all. We later purchased Drew's "Adam and Eve" glass-iron loveseat, which he personally delivered from Tampa, all in good cheer. Both pieces are eye-delights and dynamic examples of creative craftsmanship which always bring a smile. We are glad we have these mementos of Drew and to have met such a nice artist, but sorry he is gone.
Bill Cox
March 28, 2011
Drew Smith was my first glass blowing instructor.He taught me at CCAD in Ohio Drew placed a fire inside of me for glass in 1984. He was a real mench. I recently moved down to Florida and it is really neat to find out that all the glass blowers down here knew him too. God rest your soul old friend. I just want you to know I finally picked up the jacks again
Bill Klug
March 25, 2010
Searched Google for Drew today 3/25/2010 and sorry to find he's gone. So proud to own two of his vases from 1974. He gave them to me at a 1974 opening we held in his honor at our studio Marsal Glass down the Ohio River from Pittsburgh, Pa. Drew, "Ars Longa Vita Brevis" (art is long life is short) God Bless. Contact if you wish www.artglassage.com
Peggy Haynes
March 15, 2010
I will be compiling a book on Drew and need some help,PLEASE!!!! I have a lot of his promotional cards and photos of Drew and his work. Recently I had my sales book of Drew's work stolen. I would be thrilled to replace what I do not have duplicates of. In particular I am looking for a copy of his biography. Can anyone help??? Please contact me through this site at email provided.
Thanks to all who might help and Drew I miss you.
Peggy Haynes
peggy haynes
March 11, 2010
I met Drew in 1982 through Paul Woods. We were instant friends. I so believed in his art That I went to work with Paul to sell Drew's work. Over the years I spent many long hours discussing life and work. I currently own about 50 of Drew's pieces.
What a wonderful friend he was. Always funny. Once I told him he was a better chef than an artist. He prepared the most wonderful duck dinner a person could eat.
It was Paul and I who helped Drew get back to the U.S. and start blowing glass again in San Diego.
Was so glad to have the opportunity to visit with him several times and even purchase new work.
Proud to know Drew,
Peggy Haynes
Kristen Williams
February 16, 2010
I met Drew when I was a kid!!! We were neighbors for several years in Logan, Ohio. My father worked for Drew on his metal benches, and I became best of friends with his step-daughter Sini Laihiala, Kirsi also became like a mother to me. What I can really share about Drew is that truly he changed my life! One of my most fondest memories of Drew was how he truly helped me threw some of my roughest years as a teenager. The truth is I was battling major panic attacks, scared to death, my father said to me "you should talk to Drew" to me I didn't realize at the time why... to me he was this crazy artist guy always laughing, happy, with a huge oversize glass toothbrush in his studio! However, I spoke with Drew and he helped me to see in such troubled times to focus on the beauty in life, he said think of how magnificant a butterfly is when you feel anxious! Something finally made sense!!! I'm thankful that I had the pleasure to know such a great man! Even in his final months of life he was smiling, sharing his love and passion about life! Aside from the many life lessons Drew so generously shared with me he honestly made me believe in myself as an artist, If it wasn't for him taking an interest in my sketch book one day as a teenager I'm not so sure I would have persued it so much. I'm so happy that I was able to say goodbye to Drew he was and is a great spirit among us all! Basically now I feel that the only thing we can do now is to live like Drew did, in the moment, free to live, free to love, free to feel, and free to create what our hearts desire!
September 22, 2009
Just learned of our Fraternity Brother, Drew Smith's death. Puppetman, you gave us memories at Ashland College that will last forever. Like riding around on a Vespa motor scooter wearing a miner's hat instead of a motorcycle helmet. You represented us well on campus. Well known, well liked, and always smiling.
Brother Jack Curie...
Liz Troshane
August 8, 2009
I knew Drew very well, "in the early days," while still at Kent State. I still have quite a few pieces of his work, including a funky clay piece he created especially for me that we both fondly named Herrick. I have always regretted losing contact once I left Ohio...and truly do mourn the world of a great artist and friend.
G Leslie Sweetnam
July 29, 2009
I still have a glass of yours, Drew, blown into a zany mold, oval, not round in cross section, clear as your smile. I got it from you at one of Noel Clark's shows, back when we would drink during show hours. I first poured red wine into it and I'll drink a toast to your life from that glass with red wine tonight. Godspeed.
Daniel Schreiber
May 17, 2009
Drew taught me almost everything I know about working professionally as a glass artist, and operating a glass studio. Apprenticing to him in his studio in Logan, Ohio, was the richest and most rewarding period in my artistic development and I will always fondly remember not only the art, the glass, but the food and drink, the stories and experiences, and most of all his friendship, and generosity and always his very positive attitude about his life, despite its challenges.
May 13, 2009
Drew, you character, you. Now you've got me pondering my own mortality.
Mary Kay Simoni
Susann Moeller
May 7, 2009
Four months ago I submitted to my sister that you are now survived by your spirit Drew, foot-loose and fancy-free. Since then, I have been wondering what I could possibly add to her words and those of your family and friends:
I am grateful for the years with you, albeit turbulent, I would not want to miss them. One experience and inspiration chased the next - and eventually, I was out of breath. Yet here you drew your last! Now you are here and there and elsewhere too - all at the same time, your dream come true! A dream that I think unfolds best in the words of Edna Vincent Millay:
"My candle burns at both ends
It will not last the night;
But ah, my foes, and oh, my friends -
It gives a lovely light."
.... and so it did Drew.
ted vollmuth
May 4, 2009
We were long time friends of Drew, a special person. We visited his studio many times and shared wine with Drew and his other friends. We lost touch when he moved and heard about his death from a friend in Ohio. We are proud owners of several Drew Smith glass sculptures, something we will always cherish. We moved to Phoenix, AZ in 2007.
Drew was a very special person and artist.
Grant Smith
January 16, 2009
I will miss you cousin Drew. Those last few months since I got the news and corresponded with you from a distance still seem surreal to me. As I did during those months, when I think of you I go way back to our family camp-outs, holiday visits and various family outings. I think of water skiing, and using the towrope without skis to engage in an invented (and, well, just a little dangerous), shall I call it... "underwater river skimming"? Swinging on ropes and vines and letting go to fly high and land in a river, on hay in a barn, or on leaves on the other side of a ravine. Freezing mornings at a campfire, glorious sunsets in a canoe on a Canadian lake, paddling through a mysterious tall-water-reed labyrinth. Watching you ride away on a scooter, and on your return, your easy generosity insisting I take it for a ride, sharing the excitement with your younger cousin. The memories go on and on, making your life a blessing for all of us.
My sympathies to all the dear family who also shared similar memories and many more. And to all your friends that have so much love and admiration in these pages.
I'll see ya down the road Drew, love ya cuz...
Linda Lord-Johnson
January 14, 2009
Hearing of your passing dear Drew shocked & saddened me as I hadn't known of your illness. Suddenly the world felt a little less bright. Although it had been years since I'd seen you, you warmly held a special place in my heart. We shared some spectacular events----houseboating fun at Lake Powell, skiing adventures in Chamonix & many fantastic Alta Retreats. You always added such sparkle to any group. I loved how your differently colored eyes twinkled with amusement (& held quite a bit of mischief as well!!!). We always knew that when you were around, fun would be had. You embodied such joy & were larger than life. You just colored outside of the lines & lived with such wild abandon. An admirable feat!
What a great spirit you were sweet Drew to have touched so many of our hearts. Thank you! Your time on this earth may have ended too soon for us, though I'll bet your friends, family & the angels in heaven are doing double somersaults to have you back. I was blessed to know you Drew & I look forward to the day our paths cross again. I'm counting on 1 more endearing dance with you. Rock on my friend. You are so loved!
Charles Nalle
January 12, 2009
Wow, learning of Drew's death a few weeks ago, really blew me away. I always liked him, even though our meetings at shows and parties were infrequent over the last three decades. He was a great guy, outgoing and gregarious. It was ashame he left the Tampa Bay area because he was such a positive influence on the arts scene in that city. In addittion, the latest body of work, ferro vitro, was truly monumental. Drew will be missed. He was one of a kind. He is permenately woven into my personal history in our world of craft. Good Bye, Drew
Sandra Miller
January 10, 2009
I met Drew about 30 years ago at a bar (Ray's) in Kent. He was holding court at a long table of revelers and had his amourous eye (the green one) on my room mate, Constance. At some point in the long afternoon he made a creative and lewd suggestion involving the three of us. Constance cringed, I laughed. I contiue to smile in my heart when ever I think of him. The wise fool in the jester's hat lives on.
Beate Timm
January 9, 2009
Lieber Drew,von meiner Schwester Susann habe ich erfahren,dass du die Erde über eine Regenbogenbrücke verlassen hast.
Ich erinnere mich gut an dich und auch an deine wunderbaren Eltern,mit denen ich unvergessliche Stunden in Hamburg und Wedel verbringen durfte.
Du warst ein Mensch,der einen nachhaltigen Eindruck hinterlässt,jemand,den man nicht vergisst. Diese Ausstrahlung von Kraft gepaart
mit Sensibilität hat berührt. Über die Jahre freute ich mich immer wieder,wenn ich gelegentlich von dir hörte.
Nun bin ich betroffen und möchte deiner Familie mein aufrichtiges Mitgefühl aussprechen.
Durch deine Wer ke ,deine Lebensweise und
durch deinen Abschied teilst du uns mit:
Lebt euer irdisches Leben intensiv,bewusst und jetzt,es gibt keine Wiederholung!
Ich danke dir ,Drew, - Beate
Yvette Kaplan
January 7, 2009
I met Drew years ago on one of Jan's Alta ski trips. We spent many fun times in "CLUB JAN".
As a cancer survivor, I was very upset when I learned of Drew's diagnosis and was praying for some miraculous cure to be found in time for him -- I am so sorry that he lost his battle with this awful disease, cancer.
I remember Drew as an extraordinary human being and grateful for the privilege of knowing him.
My sincere condolences to his family --he will be greatly missed.
Mark Looney
January 7, 2009
"Creativity, "go for it" attitude, inclusiveness and appreciation for all"---Cam Smith, my cousin Drew's grade school girlfriend very ably depicted some of his key traits for everyone to appreciate. I grew up nearby Drew and his family in Ohio. His wonderful, kind, personable mother Jean and my father John are first cousins. His grandmother Helen was my great aunt--sister of my grandmother Olive. Helen who lived to almost be 100(She and Drew died of the same condition) was an amazing artist--a wonderful painter. I have some of her Native American portraits on the dresser. She was a remarkable artistic inspiration for her grandchildren.Aunt Helen had such a presence and was so well spoken--sound familiar? Drew's brother Dean is a fabuolous ceramic artist and his wife Carrie operates a ceramic studio producing beautiful work. Dean is also a talented musician making several terrific CDs. Drew's sister Debbie is a rollercoaster of laughs--she and Drew could have been a good club comic duo. Her lifelong committment to religion may have provided special gifts to him recently.
On my bookshelf is the top shelf of Drew's lovely glasses surrounding a notable pitcher made by Kirsi . Greeting everyone at the door is a shelf with their crystal nest with eggs. I wish I had room now for some of the colorful cylinders or the poignant stained glass iron furniture. Over many years I had the pleasure of housing Drew often when he participated in shows in the Washington,DC area where I spent most of my life. Many times I would help him take down shows which was a long process but always culminated in an entertaining, sumptuous- often Asian, dinner. The ability to appreciate and view his different phases of work was a gift I'll always treasure. Drew knew everyone at the shows and everyone liked Drew- you are always glad to see Drew! His triumphs in DC were thrilling--especially the success at the Renwick across from the White House. How happy and proud we both were to view his work not only as exhibits but in the gift shop as well. Once I was in a crafts shop in Boothbay Harbor, Maine where I gleefully viewed Drew's work for sale.
Besides Cam's apt descriptions of my cousin, I'll add showman, grand host and socialite, charming troubadour, town crier of glad times----- I'll never forget Drew's first wedding with Vicky as they slowly marched in cadence dressed in medieval formal wardrobe down opposite sides of the ravine behind the family house in Bath. Drew's father Phil was a showman with mirth and gusto who sang with his beautiful voice in the Robert Shaw Chorale. He delighted in awaking house guests ,including me, with his booming version of the 1812 Overture complete with his deep resonating solos and blasting cannons.
Special thanks to Linda and Gitanah for making Drew's passage to Grandma Helen and Dad Phil and others so much easier, respectful and comfortable.
I just bought some cards of appreciation for Jean, Debbie & Dean. I skipped over the poignant ones, the serious ones, the somewhat sad ones--Drew led me to this orange and yellow card with painted flowers that is inscribed with:
"Let us remember
the smiling,
the laughing,
the talking,
the sharing,
the caring,
and the loving."
JEAN BOARDMAN ROGERS
January 5, 2009
MY DEAR DREW. IT SEEMS IMPOSSIBLE THAT YOU ARE NOT SOMEWHERE CLOSE BY WATCHING ALL OF US AND ENJOYING IT ALL. YOU WERE MY MENTOR IN THE GLASS WORLD AND IN LIFE AS WELL FOR OVER 30YRS. I AM SO GRATEFUL YOU CALLED ME LAST FEB WHEN YOU WERE IN TOWN VISITING YOUR FAMILY AND THAT WE HAD A DAY TO SPEND TOGETHER TALKING AND AND PARTYING AND LAUGHING. AS WAS EVERYONE I WAS TOTALLY SHOCKED WHEN I RECEIVED YOUR CALL IN SEPT W/AN INVITE TO YOUR WAKE. I HAD LOOKED FORWARD TO SPENDING MANY MORE YRS OF FRIENDSHIP W/YOU LEARNING AND LIVING. IT WAS SO LIKE YOU TO WANT TO COME TO YOUR OWN WAKE AND YOU HAVE INSPIRED ME TO DO THE SAME IF I HAVE ADVANCE WARNING. IT WAS WONDERFUL TO SPEND TIME W/OLD FRIENDS I HADN'T SEEN IN SO LONG. YOU AND CHARLIE RAND BETTER SAVE ME A PLACE AT THE TABLE! I MISS YOU AND LOVE YOU JEAN
Carol Hearty
January 5, 2009
Goodbye Drew- I just realized this week one of the glass eggs is missing from the piece I've had all these years......
Carol
Chuck Feil
January 5, 2009
We knew Drew for over 30 years. Having met through the crafts fair circuit. Our friendship endured many life changing adventures. He was a member of the ‘ Elder Cadre’ for my son’s initiation ceremony into manhood and we were honored to be on his “bucket list” of friends he visited before moving on. His visit to Bisbee, AZ over this past Halloween was poignant, as he loved the holiday. He dressed up as “A one night stand” and we hit all the saloons and paraded around the streets where people would come up and compliment him on his creative costume. He also graced our home and our monthly “foodie” group with his culinary talents. Nobody in town wanted him to leave… he was to return over Thanksgiving but the universe had another journey lined up for him! Both Maralyce and I will miss Drew’s unique view on life and his creativity in anything he touched…including his friends. Here is a motto I use at the end of my emails and was inspired by my dear friend Drew Smith... “Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, chocolate in one hand, wine in the other, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming WOO HOO what a ride.”
If you have photos of Drew…please email low resolution jpg. Images to: [email protected]
I have created a flickr.com album and will add images to it. You can currently view the album at http://flickr.com/photos/19169297@N02/sets/72157611912867287/
Please add captions so that we know who, what, where, and when they were taken.
Hugh Alpeter
January 5, 2009
Drew, to my friend and Revere Classmate. As I remember all the experiences together in the early years then to hear all the unique and only Drew stories. Drew lived life to the fullest. Here's to you Drew. Hugh Alpeter
Sergio Lub
January 4, 2009
Good journey old friend!
I met Drew in 1981, at the Rhinebeck or the Frederick show, when he brought an impossible 6 foot tall ladder he had made entirely out of hand blown glass. Then our paths crossed often for about a decade. We had great skiing and partying at our Club Jan escapades in Utah and, of the thousand possible choices, the collective wedding present chosen by our artist friends in 1986 is a precious glass sculpture made by Drew.
At a time when crafts were still supposed to be useful, Drew pushed the limits by making remarkable objects with no practical use other than cheering us up through their beauty. I once took a chance by noticing that his works may not qualify by the old definition of crafts since they had no obvious function. Drew did not get upset at my comment and instead he smiled and answered: "Thank you Sergio, that is exactly what I had in mind!"
Giles & Elody Crimi
January 2, 2009
We knew Drew only from the Alta ski gatherings, but we remember him as a fun-loving, beautiful spirit and chef extrodinaire. He was one of those beautiful people whose passing leaves a void -- he will be missed.
tom winemiller
January 2, 2009
It was the most unusual message ever left on my answering machine, Drew Smith inviting me to his wake, especially since I hadn’t heard from the guy in 20 years. I called him back wanting to know the rest of the “joke”. I had trouble believing what he was telling me, he sounded so upbeat.
Drew and I were childhood neighbors and friends, he being 2 years older. I was there for the dandelion coffee (it was bad), the frog dissections (yuck) and the chemistry set test tube glass blowing experiments that got him started on his future career. He was the most interesting kid I knew. As teenagers, we formed a rock band – the String Busters - our biggest claim to fame playing at the Bath horse show. You were right Drew, it was a great way to meet girls.
When Drew went off to college, it was the end of the band and the last I saw of him until I surprised him 20 years later down in Logan. I pulled up in front of his house and as he approached the car window I spoke in my best John Belushi voice, “I’m putting the band together, man”. It was a great visit.
I hadn’t spoken to Drew again until the phone call this past September. It was good to see him. He looked wonderful and sounded even better. So much so I had trouble believing his illness was real. I was hoping it was a typical Drew practical joke. I'm sorry that we weren't able to spend more time together as adults. He was a hard man to track down, as legends sometimes are.
Curt Benzle
January 1, 2009
Drew will be missed as a great artist for sure but more than that as a great friend to all who know him. He will be missed but the memories and stories live on....
Thanks Drew...
Kathy Moore
January 1, 2009
So sorry to hear of Drew's passing. Though I hadn't seen him for more than 20 years I will always fondly remember our wild and glorious Snowbird ski weeks with the whole gang- good fun, good food, great music and a whole whack of loving friends all jammed into one fine cabin in the snow. Drew was always a great addition to the party with his ready smile and quick laugh. He will be missed by many.
Candiss Cole
January 1, 2009
Oh my Dear Drew,
You were one of the first craftspeople to take me under your wings and guide me into this world we live in. Over 33 years ago, you and I met at the Frederick Craft Show, in Maryland. Always a Big smile, willing to share, always moving to your own drummer. I guess The Drummer finally called you to that big Glass Studio in the sky. Your work will live in the lives of your customers, but you will live in our hearts forever. I feel blessed to have known you.
Be at peace my friend.
Lovingly,
Candiss Ann Cole
Jan Mayer
January 1, 2009
I was a close friend of Drew's and a professional colleague for over 25 years. I will always remember Drew as one of the most loving, EXTREMELY COLORFUL, and giving members our artistic community has ever seen. If you ever needed a bed or a good meal or a helping hand, Drew never said no to anyone. Drew had a heart as big as the state of Texas. When the crafts business was booming, I used to organize outdoor recreational events for artists and gallery owners. These included white water rafting trips, ski trips to Utah and the French Alps, and houseboating trips on Lake Powell. Drew always volunteered to be my chef, pro bono! He loved to cook the finest creative meals possible with whatever he could dig up. He would often fly across the country with some of his hand picked wild mushrooms or home raised chickens or turkeys. Appetizers would start around 5 p.m. and he would continue to feed us these utterly remarkable gourmet delights up until about 11p.m. For Drew, cooking and living were art forms just as much as glassblowing. One year during one of our artist ski trips to Alta, Utah, Drew presented every participant one of his hand blown glass goblets. I would have to say that all in all, Drew was as much of " renaissance man" as I have ever personally known. I will miss him dearly. Many of my best moments on earth were shared with Drew. I can only hope and pray that I will see him again on another adventure somewhere in the universe!
Lisa Perkins
January 1, 2009
DREW !!!!! We saw, both of us, the best July fourth fireworks display EVER, becuz no 1 else was available to pick u up from the airport that day in Orange County. We would call each other up on ever fourth of July from then on to talk about it. You were liberal, I was conservative, but still friends. Luv u much, Lisa
Dixie Parks Eaton
December 31, 2008
This Xmas will be forever in my memory and heart with the loss of my dear classmate and friend. An exceptional man and friend, who has graced all of us and will be forever with us. He was a great teacher of courage and love. Thank you, Drew.
Ken Henderson
December 30, 2008
Drew, as one of your Revere classmates, I wish you peace. My sincere condolences to your family and friends.
Gene Brown
December 30, 2008
I'm glad I got to go sailing with Drew and Linda last summer. He was a great guy and I truly enjoyed his company. He will be missed.
Gene Brown
Julie Weaver-Shriner
December 30, 2008
Friends with Gita for about 25 years, I can honestly say Drew was the most exciting and unique man that I have ever known. I could go on and on. Though I have never left the country, Drew always shared his gourmet cooking, his culture/travel stories and love/knowledge of the arts. He always taught us to live, love and enjoy life to the fullest. He offered perspectives that others failed to give. His presence has broadened my horizons. His zest for life will live on in my soul.
My love and best to Gita, Julie
Debbie & Chuck Descans
December 30, 2008
I met Drew recently, he already knew about the sickness. He did not know how many days he had left, but that he was going to enjoy every single one of them. He made arrangements to see his family and friends. I went to his living wake at the glass shop in Rancho Bernardo. You could tell he loved working and teaching, helping others create art.
Linda loved and cared for Drew, knowing he wouldn’t last forever. You could see the concern in her eyes. She helped him enjoy every moment. Drew enjoyed life, art, family and friends. Drew you are missed.
Dan Shryock
December 30, 2008
My longtime friend Drew... I haven't
seen you in years and did not realize
that you were sick. I will always be
grateful for your friendship and loyalty while we were fraternity brothers at Ashland College. You were my Big Brother and we shared
some great times together at Phi Kappa Psi. Wish we could have stayed in touch but you weren't an easy guy to track down. I will always remember the year Ashland
qualified for the basketball play-offs and we all piled into your Hearse and
drove off to some distant location on
a limited budget but we had a blast and turned a few heads along the way! Then there was your old station
wagon painted like British Flag pulling
up to my home in Dover over break.
I met you through my cousin and your neighbor friend Tom Winemiller
in Akron when we were kids. You taught us how to light campfires that
almost burned down the whole forest
on Timberline Dr.
Thank you for the memories, my friend. I will feel the void and miss the times we had together. My condolences go out to your family.
Perhaps our paths will cross again.
I'll recognize your smile!
Dan Shryock
Phi Kappa Psi
Lindsay Roberts
December 29, 2008
Drew was a great neighbor (when we lived in Logan, OH), and a great friend. His visit to Arizona this fall during Halloween is a treasured memory. His creative spirit will live through all our memories. He will be truly missed by all.
Our sympathy to Linda and the rest of Drew's family.
Gitanah Noble
December 28, 2008
O-Dad I will miss you so,
I will miss your political arguments, your cooking, your encouragement, your beautiful art, and most of all your smile and kindness. I have had so many wonderful memories rush back to me since your passing. I wish I could write them all down here. But the most memorable one I have that I think best fits you as a father is the following. We were eating outside at a nice restaurant in France. I was 12 yrs old and scared to be in a country that I did not speak the language. Our waiter was trying to shoo a homeless man away from our table but my dad shock his head and said "No, no it is okay." My dad then looked at the homeless man and saw from his hand gestures he was asking for something to eat. My father asked the waiter to get a bowl for the man. The waiter was annoyed but got a bowl and brought it to our table. My dad filled it up with some of his own hot soup and gave it to the man. I remembering wow, I sure do have a lot to learn from my dad and he made me feel at ease showing his kindness to this stranger. I pray Dad that you are painting brilliant colors and blowing beautiful glass work in the heavens above. Even thou we did not agree with everything I feel privileged that I was your daughter. Thank you for being in my life and showing me kindness, tolerance, giving, and the beauty in life.
I love you and miss you,
Your daughter Gita
susie abramovitz
December 28, 2008
To the Smith Family and Linda,
My sympathies to all. Drew was a great guy and my many memories of him always put a smile on my face. It was wonderful to see him again this past fall in Logan, Ohio. We shared many fun times together in the beginning of our careers. He will be missed.
Sincerely,
Susie Abramovitz
Rock Riffle Run Pottery
Cam(ille) Smith
December 28, 2008
Drew captured my heart in 6th grade -- he was my first boyfriend. His 1 green and 1 brown eye always sparked. I remember his love of hot sauces, the hotter the better. His homemade version made me sweat. His creativity, 'go for it' attitude, inclusiveness and appreciation for all are what I will remember him for, and will be more of myself in his honor.
Gerry Kleinbeck
December 28, 2008
Dear Mrs. Smith and others,
I , still, have the VW Bug photo of your son painted flowers on the hood, sides, Playboy emblem on the back and psyedelic wheels covers.
I still get a chuckle out of them. RIP
Tom Buechler
December 28, 2008
I've lost a life-long friend. My affectionate sentiments and condolences to Drew's Mom, siblings, daughter and to his strong, beautiful Linda. What great times we had, from Indian Guides in grade school to the hot tub in Logan to fishing in Tampa to that last great party in Akron. Drew is the most unforgettable character of my life and I will miss him each and every day. I hope to see him again sometime down the road...
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Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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