Wallace Berton Drew, Jr.

Wallace Berton Drew, Jr., born March 21, 1923, passed away peacefully in his home on July 17, 2012 surrounded by family. He was 89 years old -- patriarch and deeply loved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather of a legacy, and friend to so many whose hearts and lives he enriched.

Wally moved his family to Fallbrook in 1960 from Utica, Michigan. After working for Thibodo Construction for many years as a mechanic, he was self-employed for the rest of his life. A "truck-driving man" who loved the road, he traversed the country for years. In the 70’s he opened Drew’s Rental, a heavy equipment rental yard that he operated for years. Until he passed away, he worked from his house buying and selling equipment and helping his neighbors and community whenever they needed him. Everyone knew they could call on Wally.

Mr. Drew was a devoted Catholic man. He was a life member of the Knights of Columbus and helped found the local council. Famous for his spaghetti dinners, fish fries, and pancakes, he could be seen in the kitchen at St. Peter’s Church at any event. He was active in the VFW and a 25-year member of the Elks Club. Known widely for his bus-RV conversion that he was so proud of, he was a member of the Fallbrook Exploradores RV group and traveled widely for many years with them.

A WWII veteran, he served in the US Navy and was part of the "greatest generation." He loved to throw parties, to dance, and to celebrate any occasion with his loved ones.

Wally was preceded in death by his wife Dorothy. They were married for 67 years.

He is survived by his daughters Grace (Joe), Peggy (Don), Susan, and Teresa; his son Wally (Melody); sixteen grandchildren; and thirty-one great-grandchildren.

He also leaves behind his wife of three years, Mary Jo, who delighted him in every way, and her daughters, Madeline (Glen) and Theresa (Chris) and their families.

Berry Bell Mortuary in Fallbrook will host the viewing on Friday, July 20 from 4 to 8 p.m. with a vigil and rosary at 6:30 p.m.

His funeral Mass and celebration of life will be at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 21 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church. A reception will follow at the home of Peggy and Don Durling. Wally will be interred in a private ceremony at Riverside National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in his name to Elizabeth Hospice, 150 Crest St., Escondido, Calif. 92025.