It is with great sadness we announce the death of Gene Elliot Drasher, a loving husband, father, Papa, and dear friend. He went home to the Lord on Saturday, November 30th, with his family all around.

Gene Elliot Drasher

Gene was born July 2, 1950 to Henry and Ethel Drasher in Hazleton, PA, the third oldest child in the family of 10 children.

He graduated from Doherty High School in Worcester, MA and received his draft notice, and was eventually sent to Vietnam. In 1972 Gene moved to Albert Lea, MN and in 1974 married his love, Debra Olson. Together they raised their family of 2 sons, Thomas and Daniel.

Gene worked at Wilson’s and Farmstead in Albert Lea. He then went to work in Austin at Hormel in the Electrical maintenance department, retiring from there. He also spent many years in the Army National Guard.

Gene enjoyed taking care of his yard, planting his garden and growing his flowers. He spent many weekends hunting and fishing with his sons. And was even known to Karaoke with his “Karaoke family of friends.” When grandchildren came along, he was busy watching and cheering on soccer and softball games and enjoyed watching his youngest granddaughter’s dance competitions. They were the “apple of his eye.” When his health started failing he enjoyed feeding the birds and sitting on the deck with the warm sun shining.

Gene was a member of the DAV in Albert Lea, a lifetime member of the VFW, and a member of the American Legion, receiving his “Quilt of Valor” in May 2024. He was also a member of the Albert Lea Eagles and the Moose Lodge.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Debra, his sons, Thomas (Christine) Drasher, Plymouth, MN. Daniel (Vicki) Drasher, Eagan, MN. Five grandchildren, Kaylee Drasher (Jaren Knutson) La Crosse, WI, Madi Drasher and Lexi Drasher, Plymouth, MN. Ben Drasher and Samantha Drasher, Eagan, MN. Brothers and sisters: Joan (Roger) Downer, NH. John Drasher, MA. June Hellman, PA. Joann (Mark) Pettorini, TX. Jeff (Barb) Drasher, FL. Joy Drasher, FL. Jerry (Joanne) Drasher, GA. Joey (Colleen) Drasher, NJ. Many nieces and nephews and extended families.

Preceding Gene in death, his parents, Henry and Ethel Drasher, his brother David, and brother-in-law, William Hellman. His mother-in-law, Vera Olson, father-in-law, LaVerne (Joanne) Olson, sister-in-law, Jeanette Johnson and brother-in-law, Roy Olson.

There will be a family burial at Fort Snelling at a later date.

Please remember to thank your Veteran.