Howard Drewes, a beloved lifelong resident of Fanwood, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at the Center for Hope Hospice in Scotch Plains, surrounded by his devoted family. He was 68 years old.
Howard’s journey began at Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School, where he graduated in 1973. He continued his education at Union County College, laying the foundation for a life of dedicated service to his community. Howard’s deeprooted commitment to Fanwood was evident in his career as a police officer. He joined the Fanwood Police Department and rose through the ranks to retire as a detective in 2003, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues and the community he served.
Upon retiring from the police department, Howard found a new calling as a Caddie Master at Shackamaxon Country Club in Scotch Plains. For the past 19 years, he became a cherished figure at the club, known for his warm personality and steadfast work ethic.
Howard’s contributions to Fanwood extended beyond his professional life. He was a dedicated member of the Fanwood Fire Department and played a pivotal role as the Emergency Management Coordinator during Hurricane Sandy, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to the safety and well-being of his neighbors. His passion for preserving local history led him to co-author “Fanwood Fire Company & Borough of Fanwood: A Pictorial History,” in honor of Fanwood’s 100th Year Celebration — a testament to his love for his hometown.
Howard will be remembered for his tireless service, unwavering dedication, and boundless love. His legacy is one of selflessness, strength, and
Howard Drewes, 68, of Fanwood
Devoted to His Family and Community
community spirit, leaving the world a better place for all who knew him.
Howard’s family was his pride and joy, and his love for them was evident in all he did. He is survived by his loving wife, Sally Russell Drewes; his son, James, and daughter- in-law, Melissa; his daughter, Amy DeCicco, and sonin- law, Chris; his sister, Diane Drewes Rau; his step-sister, Katherine Van Riper Buttenberg; his step-brother, Charles Van Riper; his cherished grandchildren, Russell and Peter; and his mother- and father-inlaw, Barbara and James Russell. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects at Memorial Funeral Home, 155 South Avenue, Fanwood, today, Thursday, June 6, from 3 to 8 p.m. A memorial service will be held at the Fanwood Presbyterian Church on Friday, June 7, at 10 a.m.
The family welcomes donations in Howard’s name to Camp Quality New Jersey, a non-profit organization dedicated to offering a week-long free summer camp, and year-round activities, to children ages 5 to 17 diagnosed with cancer, or to the Fanwood Fire Department. To send donations, please mail a check to: Camp Quality, P.O. Box 264, Adelphia, N.J. 07710, or Fanwood Fire Department, P.O. Box 511, 75 N Martine Avenue, Fanwood, N.J. 07023.
For more information on these organizations, please visit www.campqualityusa.org and www.fanwoodfd.com.
For additional details or to sign the guestbook, please visit www.fanwoodmemorial.com.
Howard Drewes’ life was a testament to the power of family, love, community and dedication. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know him.
June 6, 2024
