×

Lawrence W. Drennen 1923-2018

WARREN – Lawrence William Drennen, 94, of Warren, passed away peacefully, Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2018, at the home of his grandson, with his family by his side after a long battle with dementia.

He was born July 28, 1923, in Warren, a son of the late Earl and Lydia Throm Drennen.

Larry graduated from Warren G. Harding High School, where he excelled in academics.

He served in the Army during World War II and was a corporal in the 107th Division. Before and after the war, he was employed at Copperweld Steel for over 30 years as a boiler room operator.

Larry was a semi-professional photographer and a valued member of the Trumbull Camera Club, where he held many positions. He was an avid gardener, growing many flowers and plants. You may find many African violets in businesses across Trumbull county that he shared. He enjoyed watching the Cleveland Cavaliers and Indians.

Larry met the love of his life, Betty Jane Balley, at the roller rink in Youngstown, and on July 30, 1945, they were married. After his discharge from the service, they built a home together in Warren, where they raised their two sons. Later in life they traveled extensively throughout the U.S., even taking four trips to Hawaii.

He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Betty Drennen of Warren; son, Gary Drennen Sr. of Warren; grandchildren, Gary (Adora) Drennen Jr., Holly Riviria, Regina Kagy, Amy Drennen, Billy (Susan) Drennen, Janelle Drennen and Garret Kelsh; nine great-grandchildren; great-great-granddaughter, Isla Joy; sisters, Virginia Clark of Arizona and Norma Jean of Champion; as well as his dear friends, Jay and Joan Brettenham.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Edward Drennen; and a baby sister.

Services will be 1:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 9, 2018, at Carl W. Hall Funeral Home, where military honors will be observed. Friends may call 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Friday at Carl W. Hall Funeral Home. Interment will be in Belmont Park Cemetery, Youngstown.

The family requests that material contributions be made to American Cancer Society, or to the Animal Welfare League, in his memory.

(special notice)