Drews, Willi Horst
Husband, father, educator,
volunteer.
Born Sept. 11, 1941 in Waldgrabau, West Prussia. Died May 31, 2009 New Westminster, B.C. following a battle with malignant melanoma. Survived by his wife, Louise, of 43 years, sons Steven (Tara), of Calgary, Alta., Keven (Yvette) of Tofino, B.C., and sister Herta Obexer (Franz), of Black Creek, B.C., as well as his two granddaughters Fiona and Anneliese, his nieces and nephews and brothers and sisters in-law.
Willi was predeceased by his mother, Else Drews, and father, Gustav, both of Chilliwack, B.C.
Willi immigrated to Canada at the age of 12. He attended high school in Calgary, Alta., and Merville, B.C. After graduation, he studied at Concordia College campuses in Edmonton. Alta., and River Forest, Illinois. He began his teaching career in the parochial school system in Stony Plain, Alta, before moving to Libby, Montana. He moved back to Canada in 1973 and began his public school teaching career in Langley, B.C. - a school district he served for the next three decades. In the late 1970s, Willi graduated with a master's degree in education from Simon Fraser University and became a vice-principal.
Willi was an avid volunteer, dedicating countless hours to youth soccer, scouts and church. He loved gardening and visiting his property in Tofino. He retired from the Langley School District in 2003 but served as a substitute teachers until 2007. Burial will take place in Tofino June 6 (Lutheran Church Canada service). A celebration of life will take place at St. Luke Lutheran Church, 10177 148th St., June 13 at 10 a.m. All who knew Willi are welcome to attend. Donations can be made to the Canadian Melanoma Foundation.
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