It is with great sadness that we announce the passing Howard Lake Fire Chief Drusch (known to all as Taddy), was born April 6, 1970 in Winsted, Minnesota to Harvey and Lorraine (Zabel) Drusch. He was baptized and confirmed at St. James Lutheran Church of Howard Lake, where he was a lifelong member. He attended St. James School thru 8th grade, and went on to Howard Lake Winsted Waverly High School.

After 13 years of dating Taddy married the love of his life Julie Mifek, on April 3rd, 2004, at St. James. They welcomed Taylor James into their lives on August 31, 2004. They lived in town until recently purchasing their dream home in the country.

Over the years he worked for Delano Coast to Coast, on the Zander Farm, Joes Sport Shop, Diers Electric, Sibley Electric Inc. and lastly Laketown Electric. Taddy was a Fireman for 30 years. Presently serving as Chief #1.

Taddy coached Taylor’s baseball team and loved to coach basketball from the bleachers (loudly). Loved camping, fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, 4-wheeling and playing cards. Taddy helped anyone who needed it whether it was driving tractor or tinkering to get something to work right. Most of all Taddy loved spending time with Julie and Taylor as they were his world.

Taddy Drusch passed away on January 13, 2020. He had reached the age of 49 years, 9 months and 7 days. He is survived by his loving wife Julie and son Taylor. Siblings: Mike (Chris) of Waverly, Mark, Linda, Lila, Matthew “Chuck” (Darla) Drusch. Lynette Kleve all of Howard Lake. Merlyn “Pete” of Montrose and Craig “Toby” (Deb i) of Delano. Mother in law Pat Mifek and father in law Jerry Mifek, Brother in law Jeff (Katie). 16 nieces and nephews and 15 great nieces and nephews, with #16 coming in March.

He was preceded in death by: parents Harvey and Lorraine Drusch, and brother-in-law James Mifek.

Visitation

DATE: Thursday, Jan. 16
TIME: 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Prayer Service: 7:00 p.m.
LOCATION: St James Lutheran Church, 1000 7th Ave, Howard Lake, MN 55349
UNIFORM: Class “A” or “B” Requested
MOURNING BANDS: All Fire Department Personnel Only

Funeral

MN TYPE I: LODD
DATE: Friday, Jan. 17
TIME: 1:00 to 2:30 p.m.
LOCATION: Howard Lake-Waverly-Winsted High School, 8700 County Road 6 SW, Howard Lake, MN 55349
UNIFORM: Class “A” or ”B” Requested
MOURNING BANDS: All Personnel Only

All Minnesota Firefighters are invited to support Chief Drusch’s family and the celebration of his life. There will be a Sea of Uniforms at the Howard Lake-Waverly- Winsted High School. Departments bring apparatus check in with the Staging Officer at the High School.