Herbert Lester Drees

On May 6, 2025, Herbert (Herb) Lester Drees, a cherished husband, father and grandfather, passed away at the age of 87 in Olney, MD.

He was born in Earlville, Iowa in 1937. Running the 160 acre family farm with his father instilled in Herb the self-discipline and self-sacrifice for family that marked his whole life. In 1957, he enlisted in the US Navy and served aboard the USS Gyatt, reaching Yeoman Second Class in Communications. The Navy gave Herb a chance to pursue what became lifelong passions, traveling and touring historic places. He pursued his love of education by attending Catholic University in 1960. There he married his first wife Jay, and their son Alex was born in 1963. While working as a transportation economist, Herb earned a Mechanical Engineering degree from the University of Maryland. In 1968, he began his career at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory specializing in missile systems. He would remain at the Lab for 35 years, consistently earning accolades for his stellar performance. Herb was a founding member of the Olney Lion's Club where he often served as Treasurer. 

In 1975, Herb met and later married his second wife Anne who became "the love of his life." They would go on many trips and cruises together including the British Isles, Northern Europe, and even an African safari. As an amateur archeologist, Herb went on digs all over the United States and Central America. He derived great pleasure from photography for well over 30 years capturing all aspects of life, especially his favorite subject, his lovely wife, Anne. 

Herb was a devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather, a dependable employee, avid reader, and a builder who loved making things with his capable hands. His zest for life, his focused determination, wit and infectious laugh are some of the memories we will treasure. 

Herb leaves behind his wife of 48 years, Anne O'Brien; his son Alexander (Catherine) Drees; stepchildren David (Theresa) Hochhalter  and Pam (Curt) Neidhart; his grandchildren Paul and Leila Drees; step grandchildren Beau, Brigid, Chris, Kevin, and Connor; and numerous beloved nieces and nephews.