SPRINGFIELD, IL – Richard F. "Dick" Drew, 77, passed away Wednesday, May 5, 2021, at St. John's Hospital.

He was born April 23, 1944, to Richard and Olive (Draper) Drew. He married Diane Pankow on January 24, 1970 and they were married for 51 years.

Dick was a U.S. Air Force veteran, having reached the rank of Captain. He also earned his wings as a civilian and went on to become a flight instructor. He was an avid amateur radio enthusiast and served the community through various emergency response organizations. After a successful career in sales, he went on to become a business owner, which is what brought him to Springfield from the Chicago area. He enjoyed living in many parts of the country: Massachusetts, Kansas, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, New Jersey, and finally Illinois. He loved traveling and showing this beautiful country to his sons and wife.

While Dick will be remembered for a great many things, nothing stood out more than his legendary "radio voice".

He is survived by his wife, Diane; sons, Richard Drew and Jon (Jaime) Drew; brother, Tony Drew; sisters, Deme Larson and Dedra Bautts; one grandchild, Benjamin Drew; and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, June 4, 2021, at Camp Butler National Cemetery. A Memorial Luncheon will follow from 1 - 3 p.m. at Casey's Pub 2200 South Meadowbrook Rd., Springfield, IL 62711

Memorial contributions may be made to Wounded Warrior Project here: http://support.woundedwarriorproject.org