He was born October 13, 1944 to Donald Drew and Marie (Ruegg) Drew in Lancaster, WI. He attended high school in Sparta, WI. After high school he joined the US Navy in 1962 he was active duty until 1966. He served time in Vietnam. In 1967 he joined the Army National Guard until 1987. He then joined the Navy Reserves until 1994 when he retired from his Military Career.

In 1972 he married Leona (Short) Drew and they spent 47 years together.

Richard enjoyed playing country music, horseshoes, fishing and traveling. His passion was driving bus for the Sparta School District. Over 20 years he formed many bonds with the children he drove for.

He is survived by his mother; Marie Rice, brother; Donald Drew, sisters; Rose (Steve) Einer, Dawn (Larson) Johnson, Sandra (Joe) Christenson, children; Patricia (Kris) Kuhnke, Douglas Drew, Pauline Drew, Richard Drew, Daniel Drew and Sarah Gabel, sibling cousins; Tim Lyons and Bonny Lyons, many grandchildren, nieces and nephews and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Eagles Club in Sparta, WI on Saturday December 8 at 1:00 pm.