Gary E. Drushel

Gary Eugene Drushel, 83 years old, of Ashland died peacefully on Sunday, February 1, 2026 in his home and surrounded by his loving family.

Gary was born December 17, 1942 to Eugene and Lois (Elson) Drushel.

He was a 1960 graduate of Ashland High School, where he ran Cross Country and Track. Following High School, he attended Ohio Linotype School in Logan, Ohio - graduating in 1961. He began his career in printing at Smail Printing as a Linotype Operator. The business, later Heritage Press, is where he served his entire printing career, working for over 50 years combined.

Gary enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1961, serving as an Aircraft Mechanic in the Ohio Air National Guard until 1967. While for many, six years of service would satisfy their desire to serve their country, Gary enlisted again in 1973; however, this time it was under the Department of the Army, wherein he served the 1486th Transportation Company of the Ohio Army National Guard until his retirement in 1994 at the rank of First Sergeant – offering nearly thirty years of military service to our Nation.

In 1979, Gary married his bride, Susan, with whom he shared the best years of his life. Together they helped nurture and shape their six children, all profoundly grateful for his impact upon their lives. Gary's children are: Jeffrey (Suzi) Drushel of Ashland; Jennifer (Rob) Hissom of Ashland; Melinda Edgington of Perrysburg; Michael (Christy) Will of Cranberry, PA; Joseph Drushel of Ashland; and, Scott (Cara) Will of Ashland. In addition to his children, Gary is survived by 22 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren. Sadly, Gary was preceded by two of his precious grandchildren: Monique Edgington and Dylan Giles.

While Gary was also preceded in death by his parents, all of his siblings and their spouses survive. Gary was the oldest of six children. He is survived by his three brothers and two sisters: Dennis (Rosetta) Drushel of Polk; John Drushel of Ashland; Thomas (Teresa) Drushel of Ashland; Susan (Roger) Gortner of West Salem; and, Martha (Gary) Roland of Ashland.

Gary was an amazing husband, father, grandfather and friend. He was well-learned and wise, yet humble just the same. He was hard-working, a servant-leader, and a patient teacher.

In addition to his active involvement with his AHS Class of 1960 classmates and his fellow soldiers of the 1486th Transportation Company, Gary was also a member of Battery-D Artillery Company, and supported various organizations whose aim was to care for and support our military and veterans.

Family and friends will be received during calling hours on Friday evening, February 6, at Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home (313 Center St.) in Ashland from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and one hour prior to the service from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the church.

A Worship Service to God's glory and honor and with thanksgiving for Gary's life will be at 11 AM Saturday, February 7, at Ashland (Trinity) Country Church (1301 OH 89), with Pastor Michael Will and Reverend Jim Scott officiating. Interment and military honors conducted by the Ashland Veterans Honor Guard will immediately follow in Trinity Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Country Church or Ashland Pregnancy Care Center.

For those who may not be able to attend, online condolences may be shared on the funeral home's website at denbowfh.com.

Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted to handle the arrangements.