Theodore Drueke

 

Ted Drueke, 83, passed away on February 10, 2023, at home and in the loving care of his longtime friend and life partner Frances Garner.

He was born on November 26, 1939, in Jackson, TN, to the late Joseph Spence Drueke and Alta Mae Maxwell Drueke, where he grew up with his three siblings Joseph Bernard Drueke, John Spencer Drueke (both deceased) and Nell Cornell Vetter.  He attended both the University of Mississippi, on a full scholarship, and Northwestern University and spent many years living in Leiper’s Fork, TN, before moving to Nashville.

During his varied career, Ted made use of his widely noted intellect while not giving up his passion for working with his hands.  He worked on everything from an oil rig to a NASA space program and spent the last part of his career in home improvement.

For most of his life he had his beloved horses.  He loved music, Opera and Ballet.

As a news junkie and a voracious reader with an uncanny memory, Ted was in tune with worldwide events and political matters.  He loved all things scientific and mechanical.  Because he was so widely read and had so many interests he was the first choice for a  Trivial Pursuit partner.

Ever the outdoorsman, Ted loved animals, the woods, and the beauty of nature, itself.  Over the years, he was involved with the Sierra Club and the Tennessee Rivers Association and volunteered for Nashville’s Triathlon swim events and enjoyed many hours hiking and paddling Tennessee rivers.

Ted will be remembered for his sweet friendship to many, his gentle kindness to all and his smooth moves on the dance floor with Frances.

In addition to Frances and his sister, Ted leaves to cherish his memory Step-Son Marshall (Sandra) Sugg, step grandchildren, Brad, Barrett and McKenzie Sugg,  great step children; Bradley and Eliana Sugg, as well as  many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and some great greats. Always special to his heart were Susan, Chad and Will Gentry; Jen, Emily, Max and Mattie Gentry; Leigh Garner; Matt Garner; and Traci, Joe, Jessie and Joseph Gallivan.

The visitation is at 10 a.m.  February 18th at St. Henry’s Catholic Church on Harding Pike followed by a service at 11 a.m.  Burial at Leiper’s Fork Cemetery at 1 p.m.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alive Hospice or the charity of your choice.