Lasting Memories

Guenter Johann Drewes
Dec. 8, 1934-Jan. 12, 2021
Pleasanton, CA

Guenter Johann Drewes, a longtime Pleasanton resident, entered into rest on January 12th, 2021. He was a beloved husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, Opa, brother, brother-in-law and friend.

He leaves behind his wife of 63 years, Luise, daughter Diane Bowers, husband John, daughter Susan Michael, husband Gene, granddaughter Kelly Bowers, grandsons John Bowers, Gary Michael, wife Amber, David Michael, fiancée Courtney, Daniel Michael and great-grandson Thomas Michael. He also leaves behind his brother Helmut, wife Cathe, brother Reinhold, sister-in-laws, Karin, Phyllis, and Gerda as well as many other family and friends. Guenter was preceded in death by his parents Hinrich and Erna, brother Horst, nephew David, sister-in-law Helga, father-in-law Fritz, mother-in-law Grete and brother-in-law Gunter.

Guenter was born in Germany on December 8th, 1934. He was one of four boys; twin brother Helmut, brothers Reinhold and Horst. Guenter and Luise met in Germany and were married in May 1957. They followed his parents and brothers to the United States from Germany in August of the same year. They resided in Oakland, California; then San Leandro before moving to Pleasanton in 1971.

Guenter served two years in the U.S. Army, nine months after coming to the United States. He was stationed in Fairbanks, Alaska. He became a United States citizen in 1965. After serving his country, he continued working in his trade as a painter, a trade he learned in Germany. He was a member of the Painters Union Local No. 3, retiring in 1997.

He was a true master craftsman; hard-working, honest, generous and dedicated to his work and trade. In his free time, Guenter enjoyed reading and watching television programs related to history, current events, architecture, landscapes and geography. He had a love of steam locomotives, trains and wildlife. He enjoyed feeding the hummingbirds that visited his backyard and loved watching them from his beloved recliner. He also was frequently entertained by the mischievous squirrels that scurried around the yard. He enjoyed visits from family members who often brought the family dogs and on occasion, a bird. He was a true animal lover.

We would like to express our thanks and appreciation for the many calls from family and friends, for the doctors and nurses from Kaiser who truly cared about his health and well-being. We would also like to thank MaryJane and Agata from Kindred Hospice who managed his treatment and care with kindness and compassion.

Per Guenter’s request there will be no funeral service. His family will honor the requests he made and remember his life privately.