Edward W. Drew

Edward Walter Drew, 91, of Gorham, passed away at the Androscoggin Valley Hospital in Berlin on August 19, 2023. Ed was born on November 29, 1931, in Berlin, NH, to the late Irving J. and Alverta (Fernald) Drew. He was a graduate of the Gorham High School Class of 1949 and a lifelong resident of the Berlin-Gorham community. Ed proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army, specifically in the Korean Military Armed Forces Group (KMAG). During his service, he displayed exceptional dedication and received the Commendation Pendant and Bronze Medal in recognition of his achievements. After his honorable discharge in 1954, he returned home to his beloved Gorham community.

On November 25, 1954, Ed married the love of his life, Elizabeth "Betty" Potter. Together, they shared a lifetime of cherished memories. Ed found great fulfillment in his professional endeavors, working as a skilled carpenter and an esteemed teacher. Starting in July of 1956, he joined the Gorham School District, where he served as the superintendent of Building, Grounds, and Transportation. In 1972, Ed transitioned into teaching industrial arts at Berlin Middle School, making a lasting impact on countless students' lives for the next 19 years. He retired in 1991, leaving behind a legacy of knowledge and inspiration.

Ed was an active member of the community and dedicated himself to various organizations and committees throughout his life. His commitment to service was evident through his active involvement in the Gorham Rotary Club, where he served as President. Additionally, Ed contributed his time and expertise as the chairman of the Gorham Recreation Committee for many years. He also lent his coaching skills to numerous school sports teams, including Varsity and JV Girls basketball, Berlin-Gorham Varsity softball, and Berlin Middle School baseball. His coaching extended to various Gorham Recreation Department teams and the Androscoggin Valley Retired Educators, where he continued to inspire and mentor young athletes. Ed was a member of the Gorham Congregational Church UCC, and a former member of the Fur, Feather, and Fin Club.

Family includes his foster son, David Gutowski of Concord, NH, along with several in-laws, nieces, nephews, friends, colleagues, and the several young people who made their home with he and his wife over the years. He was predeceased by his wife of 61 years Betty (Potter) Drew; a foster son Robert White; sisters Charlotte Sexton, Barbara Marino, Mildred Scott, Thelma Marrer, and Phyllis Waterman.

A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, August 30, 2023 at 1pm at the Gorham Congregational Church UCC, Main Street, Gorham, NH with interment to follow in the Lary Cemetery. Relatives and friends are invited to call on Tuesday, August 29th from 5-7pm at the Bryant Funeral Home, 1 Promenade Street, Gorham. Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.bryantfuneralhome.net.