Donald R. Drichel

Donald Robert Drichel, 82, of Prophetstown, Illinois, passed away on November 21, 2024. Born on June 23, 1942 to Alfred and Emma Drichel, Don lived a life marked by service, devotion, and love for his family and community.

Don enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1961, where he served in Okinawa for a year and trained in nuclear, biological, and chemical defense. After his military service, Don worked as an electrician for four years before working for FS for the remainder of his career. He married the love of his life, Donna Larson, on September 30, 1967, and enjoyed over 57 years of love and companionship.

Throughout his life, Don was a faithful member of the Fenton United Methodist Church, where he and Donna became Christians and served for 40 years. His faith and service to others were a cornerstone of his life.

In retirement, Don and Donna moved to Bloomington, Indiana, where they spent 10 cherished years with their son, Scott, and their beloved grandchildren, Anika, Marcy, and Justin. In 2020, Don and Donna moved back to Prophetstown, IL.

Don’s family, especially his children and grandchildren, were the light of his life. He was always selfless, putting the needs of others before his own. He will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering love.

Don is preceded in death by siblings Mel Drichel, Lois Drichel, and Harlan Drichel. He is survived by his wife, Donna Drichel; son, Scott Drichel; daughter, Michelle (Dale) Brown; and grandchildren, Anika, Marcy, and Justin Drichel, and Jake and Allison Brown.

The family would like to express their deep gratitude to the staff at Betty’s Garden Memory Care and Winning Wheels in Prophetstown for the compassionate care they provided Don during his final years.

Per Don's wishes, the family will not hold traditional visitation and funeral services.  Condolences can be offered to the family on his Memory Page at mvcremation.com.  In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in Don’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Don will be dearly missed by all who knew him, but his legacy of love, service, and family will live on forever in the hearts of those who were fortunate to call him a husband, father, grandfather, and friend.