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Eugene Drendel Obituary
Eugene C. "Gene" Drendel, age 71, a lifelong resident of Naperville, IL, died Thursday, Oct. 16, 2008 at Edward Hospital in Naperville. He was born Nov. 30, 1936. Loving husband of Sharon M., nee Fogarty, Drendel, whom he married June 25, 1960; beloved father of Terri Drendel, Joseph
(Eileen) Drendel, Douglas Drendel, Andrea (Steve) Coates and Sean (Crissy) Drendel; adored grandfather of Hunter, Serena, Ellie and Aiden Drendel, Madisen and Korey Gonzalez, Courtney, Alex and Nicole Coates; devoted son of the late Andrew and Cleo, nee Reidy, Drendel; dear brother of Ken (Jean) Drendel, Harriet (Ray) Kuhn, Grace Steininger and the late Thomas (Nancy) Drendel; fond uncle of many; loving brother-in-law of the late Ginny (the late Thomas) Drendel. Gene served as principal of Jefferson Junior High School in Naperville from 1970-1985 and was former Associate Superintendent of Instruction for Naperville School District #203 for grades six through 12, where he remained until his retirement in 1994. After retirement, Gene mentored many future educators at North Central College in Naperville for the next ten years, teaching an introduction to teaching course and coordinating student teacher placements. Visitation Sunday, 1 to 8 p.m. at Naperville North High School Contest Gym, West Side of Building, Entrance #19, 899 N. Mill St., Naperville. Additional Visitation Monday, 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. at SS. Peter & Paul Church, 36 N. Ellsworth St., Naperville. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 a.m. in the church with Rev. Thomas Milota officiating. Interment SS. Peter & Paul Cemetery, Naperville. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to The Naperville Education Foundation, 203 W. Hillside Rd., Naperville, IL 60540. Arrangements by Friedrich-Jones Funeral Home, Naperville, IL. For more info please call 630-355-0213 or www.friedrichjones.com
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Memories and Condolences
for Eugene Drendel
Laurie Clam Sullivan
October 11, 2023
Greatest Principal and person to all the students.
Will never forget him
Laurie Clam Sullivan
Jennifer (Pon) Vierling
December 23, 2008
Mr. Drendel was part of a legacy of educators that is so rare in today's society. He reached out to all students, and I was privileged enough to have known him. It is a shame that my children, who are now going through Naperville schools too, will probably never have a teacher/administrator who they can remember for a lifetime, like I will remember Mr. Drendel.
Sue Walker
November 11, 2008
I just received the news of Gene's passing and I am SO sad. I have spent 18 wrestling tournaments with Gene and will miss his warm smile and kind words at the upcoming tournament......he was a gem.
Meg Brons Nicewanner
November 5, 2008
To the Drendel Family,
I am so sorry to hear about Mr. Drendel. He was such a big part of my life from the time I was very young, and he was a principal at Beebe. I remember sitting on his lap and him telling me that he was leaving Beebe to become a principal at Jefferson Jr. High. I made him promise me that he wouldn't leave Jefferson until after I did. He kept his word to me! Our final days at Jefferson, my friends and I toilet papered his house - and left a sign saying, "Thanks for three great years at JJHS". We wanted to let him know that we knew his influence made our school great. Mr. Drendel was a wonderful person! My condolences to your family for this loss.
Laurie Clam Sullivan
November 3, 2008
Dear Drendel Family...My brother John Clam and I first met Mr. Drendel while attending JJHS. I will never forget how he always greeted the students in the hallway....after graduating from NNHS in 1977, then college & marriage, I would see him at Naperville functions where he would always greet me warmly and with utmost interest in my life as a wife, mother and teacher.....he made such a positive impact on all students and he will never be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to the Drendel family on the loss of a truly wonderful man.
Cindy (Roeder) Bonfield
November 1, 2008
To the Drendel Family,
I am so sorry to hear about Mr. Drendel passing. I will not only remember him as kind, wonderful principal, but a great sport playing my mom's craypaper games. I'll never forget all the hockey. And especially, I'll never forget his kindness.
Fred and Bonnie Willman
November 1, 2008
Naperville will never be the same without Gene Drendel. I am fortunate to have known him and proud to have worked with him. Sharon and their five excellent children were his immediate family, but Naperville was his extended family. What a fine, fine man.
Joe Pedersen
October 29, 2008
Gene was a legend in Illinois Wrestling. He worked for his entire working life as an announcer for our great sport. His dedication to making each wrestler feel important was key to his introductions. Gene will be sorely missed at the state tournament as his voice has echoed the names of the greatest wrestlers from the state of Illinois. Gene was also a great friend and mentor as an educator. "Children First" was his motto and he lived it every day of his life. Goodbye to a dear friend. May God Bless and Hold You in the palm of his hand.
The Howard's
October 29, 2008
We were very saddened by the news of our neighbor Gene's passing.
May the Lord give you and your entire family comfort soon. If we can do anything, to help around the house please feel free to call.
May God be with you all during this hard time.
Jeff, Karin, Casey, and Chelsea Howard
Chris Perry
October 28, 2008
Mr. Drendel was my principal, my friend's dad, Illinois' voice for high school wrestling, and a community leader to me and my family. Every time I hear "Let's wrestle...and on mat 1" I think of Mr. Drendel. He will be sorely missed, but never forgotten.
Beth Milford Orberson
October 27, 2008
Doug & Drendel family,
I am so sorry to hear of your father's passing. Please know that you are in my thoughts & prayers.
David Sullivan
October 27, 2008
Wrestling in Illinois will never be the same with out Gene’s voice echoing through Assembly Hall. He will be missed by all who knew him. He was my principal at Jefferson Jr. High, the announcer at many of my wrestling tournaments, the superintendent of my district and the father of a friend I grew up with from kindergarten. Illinois most beloved principal, educator, coach will never be forgotten.
Ann Clam
October 27, 2008
The world has lost a wonderful human being....He guided two of my children, Laurie and John Clam, at JJHS in the 70's.....his keen understanding of children made him such an outstanding personality to all who knew and loved him.....my deepest sympathies to the Drendel family......
Don Shymkewich
October 24, 2008
Dear Drendel Family,
I am sorry to hear of your great loss. I have fond memories of Gene as far back as I can remember. He was a kind, smart, and funny man. His legacy will continue on as the Drendel family epitomizes integrity and class. You are all in my family's thoughts and prayers.
Bill Chesney
October 24, 2008
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
I Think of the Drendel Christmas parties & how Gene was always so much fun at them. He was a wonderful, loving man.
Sheila Bornemeier
October 24, 2008
Sharon and children and grandchildren,
I have such fond memories of Gene as a classmate of NHS class of 1954. He was always such an upbeat, happy addition to an event , and that, obviously, continued throughout his life and distinguished career in Naperville.
We will all feel the loss, but are the better for having had Gene with us.
May God bless you all and give you strength in this most difficult time.
Love,
Don and Sheila (Koeder) Bornemeier
(Sterling Heights, MI)
Dorcas and Bob Dillingham
October 23, 2008
Dear Sharon and Family, We were so sorry to hear about Gene. He was loved by so many and what a great guy he was. We have so many fond memories. Thankful that Sean and Wes brought us together. He will be greatly missed. Love to you all!
Jim Newkirk
October 22, 2008
Doug and the Drendel Family:
I can remember your father vividly, standing outside the office greeting students at JJHS every morning as we entered the building and walked the halls. My sympathy.
Fred and Jackie Yndestad
October 21, 2008
To Sharon & Family
Gene was such a wonderful friend and colleague. He always made you smile and think of the bright side. We will never forget his leadership; loyality to his family, friends and Naperville; and his wonderful sense of humor. Our thanks go out to all of you for sharing him with us.
Our prayers and support are with you .
With Love, Fred and Jackie Yndestad
Saran & Kent Shoemaker
October 21, 2008
To all the Drendel family,
Gene was a classmate of ours (NHS class of 1954) and we were so saddened to hear of his passing. Oour memories of him make us smile---he always had a smile himself, always a lighthearted comment. We were so pleased that he had made such a fine career for himself in the Naperville School System. May God's love touch you all in this hard time, and may all of us who knew Gene be the better for having known him.
Bruce & Betty Cameron
October 20, 2008
To Sharon and the entire Drendel family. Betty and I were saddened to hear that our friend and former collegue Gene had passed away. Gene and I worked together in Dist. 203 for 21 wonderful years. He has been our prayers for several years as he dealt with all those health issues. Sharon...you and your family will always have many, many wonderful memories of a person who was able to make us laugh, to work a little harder, and most of all to do what was "best for the kids".
Bruce and Betty Cameron
2037 Allende Ave.
The Villages, Fl. 32159
Jeff Krey
October 20, 2008
Dear Drendel Family,
Please know that Gene made a huge impact to kids all throughout Naperville. As my former principal at JJHS, I remember him as a passionate educator with a great sense of humor. Terri, my girls Hailey and Zoe want to pass along their condolences and want you to know how sorry they are for your loss.
You are all in our prayers.
Jeff Krey and Family
Shirley and Jay Hinman
October 20, 2008
Drendel Family so sorry for your loss. I was so glad to know and care about Gene. The reunion that the class of1954 had a few weeks ago was so wonderful. I had a chance to spend a few minutes of alone time , with Gene. I know that he is with the Lord and we look forward to seeing him again. Please keep the faith and know the Lord loves each and every one of us.
Vince Kuhn
October 20, 2008
Uncle Gene was really my Dad's (Bill Kuhn) uncle. My brothers and I loved coming to Naperville to visit our family. A personal highlight for me was going to Uncle Gene and Aunt Sharron's house to play with Terri, Joe, Andrea, Doug & Sean. Sean and I were the closest in age and always had a great time playing wiffle ball or football in their back yard with Doug & Joe. Damage to the house or garage was frequently overlooked as long as we were having fun. Uncle Gene loved to see us playing ball and getting dirty. In the winter, he'd open up the gym and we'd play hoops at one of the middle schools. It was clear that he was just a huge advocate for kids and competition.
He lived a great life and was loved by many as evidenced by the massive number of people at the wake and funeral. He had a great wife, an outstanding family, and an opportunity to know his grandkids. If I can get that much out of my life, I know I will rest in peace.
Jim Lanter
October 20, 2008
I've known Gene since Grade 1 at SS Peter & Paul. We were both 4 H ers together. I'll never forget some of the Halloween pranks we participated in. It was with great sadness when I heard of his passing. My prayers go out to him and to you Sharon.
Charles Kilb
October 20, 2008
Rest in peace, Hugo; you earned it.
To you and the children, Sharon:
Strength to continue with wonderful
memories and the grace of Our Lord.
God Bless,Charlie & Becky Kilb
Marilynn Raymond Vannucci
October 20, 2008
My condolences to the entire Drendel family. Growing up on Hobson Road, Gene was my 4-H leader along with his brother, Tom. We knew then that he would go on to inspire children and do great things. A true Naperville treasure.
Mardie Delaney
October 20, 2008
I was a classmate of Gene's at SS Peter & Paul's for 8 years. 'Bluejean' as some of us affectionately called him, was one of our gang. We rode bikes, played baseball, and went to see cowboys and Indians on Friday nights at the Naperville theater. Wouldn't he have been amazed then to know of the impact he would have on so many other people's lives in his lifetime! I'm really proud of him as I know his family and friends are as well.
A. Owen Egizio
October 20, 2008
Gene was my principal in 1970 at Jefferson Jr High. It was only a 6th and 7th grade school the 1st year and the school wasn't completed, so they waould run us down to Bebee school for Gym class it all went very smoothly. So, like he didn't have enough on his plate organizing a new school, he would go to another school after school and watch the wrestlers work out then the next day he would come and teach us the moves and as it turned out, we were pretty good for 6th and 7th graders beating most schools against 8th graders. I'll tell you this in all honesty he seemed like he knew every kid in that school by first name and with all he had going on it just amazes me a man with so much to do found so much time to interact with so many childern. He left a lasting impression on me and I think fondly of him often. He will be missed but never forgotten. I'd like to express my sympathy to his wonderful Family.
Jason Kuefler
October 20, 2008
To the whole Drendel family our thoughts and prayers go out to you in your time of need. He was a great man!
Michael Peterson
October 20, 2008
I'll never forget Mr. Drendel. He was a wonderful man and I will always admire and respect his memory. I met him in 1969 while I was in 2nd grade at Beebe School and I was lucky enough to know him through 8th grade at Jefferson. I'll never forget that day in 2nd grade when he called me out of class to discuss privately with me the caterpillar I had brought in to share with my class. He made me feel very important. I'll always remember his jolly demeanor.
Jim and Kathy Bergeron
October 20, 2008
Sharon. We are sure we can't appreciate the loss you and your family are feeling, but know that a great many people are feeling that loss with you. Gene was a very special person. He touched many people in a special way and we will always be thankful that we were among them. May God bless you and watch over you in your time of need.
Rebecca (Prazak) Ewan
October 19, 2008
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Mr. Drendel. He was my principal at Jefferson Junior High School from 1983 to 1985. I, as well as so many Naperville students and families, was very fortunate to have had such a gifted educator and caring man touch my life. My thoughts are with Sean and the rest of the Drendel family during this difficult time.
Ken Bauder
October 19, 2008
As a classmate and friend ever since the late '40s I am saddened by Gene's passing though blessed to have had him as a part of my life. My heart goes out to Sharon and the extended Drendel family and my prayers are for their comfort. I do not know another person like Gene who spent his entire life without leaving Naperville and yet became a valued part of more individual's lives than anyone can imagine. They didn't make many like him, and they surely aren't making many more. We all loved him and will all miss him as he rests with God.
Antonio Garcia
October 19, 2008
Mr. Drendel's passing is extremely unfortunate and a big loss to the Naperville North community. I was a huge fan of Gene before I knew him personally. Always announcing the Naperville North wrestling meets, DVC championships, and the IHSA wrestling state finals. I will miss his presence, knowledge, and his unforgettable "now lets wrestle"
Antonio Garcia
Naperville North High School
Assistant Wrestling Coach
Judy (Dagenais) Hart
October 19, 2008
To the Drendel's - each and every one,
Your loss is felt deeply as a whole community mourns Gene's death. We are, each one, changed by the way Gene touched our lives. He will live on in each of us. Know that his legacy is just beginning because of the people he challenged to continually grow. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Suzie & Terry Eihl
October 19, 2008
Dear Sharon and family,
You all have our deepest sympathy on Gene's passing. We remember him from NNHS football when Craig and Sean played together and the parents had so much fun together.
May many wonderful memories help you through this difficult time.
Suzie and Terry Eihl
Beth Van Marter Farrell
October 19, 2008
I was so sad to hear of Mr. Drendel this morning. What a great principal at JJSH! A few years ago, he was there for me with a big bear hug when my dad passed away. More recently I would see Mr. Drendel at Octoberfest, selling tickets, and telling my kids stories of me or my dad. Even my kids remember him and are so sad. He was admired by all and will be dearly missed.
Alison Greenley Lloyd
October 19, 2008
I was so sorry to read about Gene. It seems like I have known him forever. He was my principal at JJHS, came to a few swim meets at NNHS, and then became my mentor during student teaching at NCC. He was such a wonderful man and will be deeply missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
debbie/carl hunckler
October 19, 2008
Sharon and Family, I hope you will always know the impact Gene made on Carl and I. He was undoubtedly one of the most cheerful and warm people we have ever known. He was able to camouflage his illness and always had a positive outlook no matter what. We will truly miss his wonderful nature, but we know that he will always live on in you Sharon, and the fabulous family you both created. We will always be grateful and will never forget. Our thoughts and prayers are with you always. The Hunckler Family
Mary Lynn Shiffler Walters
October 19, 2008
Condolences and blessings to the family and friends of this wonderful man who has given so much to Naperville and its people. He will be sorely missed.
Sandy (Christian) Starowesky
October 19, 2008
Sharon and family... My heart is sad today thinking of losing Gene...A wonderful friend. I am so glad that just 6 weeks ago I, along with many of our class of 1954 were able to have a reunion and time of fun and fellowship with Gene. He expressed to me several times how much it meant to him.. I pray the Lord will comfort you all. I wish i could be there to extend my sympathy in person, but that is not possible. God Bless you.
Rob Clark
October 18, 2008
We are very sad to hear about a great man passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Drendel family. Fortunately we were able to spend time with him and the family at the reunion a couple of months ago. A fun memory for me was Gene paying off a bet when USC beat Illinois in the Rose Bowl last year. He was a very fun hearted, kind man. He will be missed greatly.
Glenda and Don Isham
October 18, 2008
Our Hearts and prayers are with Gene's Family. I was the first librarian at Jefferson Junior High and remember the unfinished building we moved into. My mother had died and I knew if I helped open Jefferson Junior High I would be very busy the summer before it opened. He never blinked when I told him I had to take a student home. The student who was taking care of his brothers and sister had told me he thought he had left the stove on so I took him home and yes, he had left the stove on. Gene was a great guy and much loved.
Sandy and Ed Leedy
October 18, 2008
To the Drendel Family,
We are sorry to learn of Gene's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.Gene was a special man and we are glad that we knew him.
Peace,
Sandy and Ed leedy
Marie Fogarty Hamil
October 18, 2008
Sharon & Family,
John and I are very sorry to read of Gene's passing in Cousin Tom's e mail. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Ed Klemm
October 18, 2008
I was very sad to hear of the passing of Gene Drendel. Gene was my first instructor in a class called "Introduction to Education" at North Central College. Gene sharred with the entire class his passion for teaching as well as equipping us new teachers for our futures. God Bless You Gene.
Betsy (Rambow) Konkolewski
October 17, 2008
Dear Drendel Family ~
I remember Mr. Drendel as our principal at Jefferson Jr. High when I attended. But I MOSTLY remember him as Santa when I was about 5. When I sat on his lap he knew my name and he asked me about each of my 3 brothers BY NAME and it was one of my greatest childhood memories! He was a very dear man and was admired by many. My sympathys and prayers are with your family.
Mike, Debbie, Stefan, Nick and Aaron Fanthorpe
October 17, 2008
To The Drendel Family
We were so very sad to here the passing of such a special man. We will never forget the excitement and the support that he continued to give our son, Nick. One of the highlights of Nick winning a state wrestling title was hearing his name announced by our dear friend Gene Drendel. The day Nick signed with Iowa State, he was so excited to share his news with Gene. We feel so blessed to have had the opportunity to become friends with Gene and his entire family. It's hard to put in words how very much he will be missed. He was loved by so many people and always will be. Our love and sympathy goes out to the entire Drendel Family. We have a most treasured picture ~ Gene shaking Nick's hand after his very last Naperville North Wresling Match. Thank you all for sharing Gene. He has a special place in our hearts.
Mark G. Gervais
October 17, 2008
I want to thank the Drendel family for sharing Gene with us at the Illinois State Wrestling Meet, for many years. His voice will be missed, but his spirit will live on.
Chauncey Carrick
October 17, 2008
The wrestling community has lost a great individual who always worked very hard to promote our sport. This dedication has been passed on throughout his family. We will all miss Gene's voice in Champaign next February. My deepest sympathy go out to the Drendel family. Thank you for allowing Gene to touch all of our lives.
Mary Fraley
October 17, 2008
So very sorry to hear of Gene's passing. He saw all our kids through school and was a great neighbor for many years on North Eagle Street. Our thoughts and prayers are with Sharon and the children.
Mary Fraley and the Givler Kids
Devra Shymkewich-Pych
October 17, 2008
Drendel Family - I remember meeting Mr. Drendel when Andrea played basketball for my father at Naperville North. He did not miss a game. I also remember him at all of the High School track meets. What a wonderful father!! May God comfort you all during this time of sadness.
Much love and prayers to you all,
hARRY Wright
October 17, 2008
Gene was outstanding in our 4-h CLUB...ALWAYS LEADING OTHERS TO DO BETTER. What wonderful leadership he gave to education in Naperville. He did his early leadership training in 4-H PROUD!
Jennifer Dunn Walsdorf
October 17, 2008
I attended Jefferson Jr. High from 1979-1981...I am so very sorry to hear about Mr. Drendel's passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends and former Naperville students.
Jim Thomas
October 17, 2008
We have know Gene since our youngest daughter started 1st grade at Beebe. We went to Arizona for 3 years and when we were registering our daughters for school upon return Gene saw us from his car and returned to school to welcome us back. I was with Gene in Rotary after I retired and like his work in school, he always went above and beyond. Gene was a true gentleman and created many good memories for a lot of people. He has run a good race and won. May he rest in peace. Our best to his family.
Mary Ann and Jim Thomas
Naperville will always be home.
Howard&Carol Noffsinger & Family
October 17, 2008
We were sad to hear of Gene's passing but happy we just saw him at Jenny's wedding 3 weeks ago.
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