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Michael J. Drulis Sr., cherished family

December 8, 2022

Michael J. Drulis Sr., of Lewes, passed away suddenly near his home Monday, Dec. 5, 2022. He was born July 13, 1950, in Philadelphia, Pa., to Mary and Joseph Drulis Sr.

Mike attended Notre Dame High School in Lawrence Township, N.J., where he was a three-sport star athlete and a member of National Honor Society. Upon graduation, he attended the University of Delaware, where he joined the Theta Chi fraternity and met the love of his life, Diane Okonowicz. They married in 1972, then moved to Dover in 1978, where, with Diane’s mother (Theresa Okonowicz), they would spend the next 20-plus years raising a family and building lasting relationships in the community. 

Above all things, he cherished spending time with his family and friends, whether it was relaxing at the beach, watching a ball game, or a night of board games that promised to deliver laughs. He also enjoyed his long walks and bike rides through Sussex County, following his Fightin’ Blue Hens, Fighting Irish, Phillies, Flyers and Cardinal’s football (going back to the St. Louis days). A supporter of the arts and an Army Dad, Mike always showed a deep devotion to God and his country.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 36 years, Diane Drulis. He is survived by his sister, Mary Beth Zagorzycki (Peter) of Winter Haven, Fla.; his brother, Joseph Drulis Jr. (Kathy) of Ewing Township, N.J.; his son, Michael Drulis Jr. (Emily) of Seattle, Wash.; and his daughter, Autumn Schneider (John) of Lewes; as well as nine nieces and nephews. He never missed an opportunity to dote on his three precious grandchildren: Dru, Natalie and Joel. 

Known to many as “Pop,” “Pop D,” “Pop Pop,” “Big Mike,” or “Drubs,” Mike will always be remembered for his selfless love, quiet strength, tight spiral, and bottomless compassion. 

Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 8, at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Hwy., Lewes.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, Dec. 9, at St. Edmond Catholic Church, 409 King Charles St., Rehoboth Beach. Burial will take place at 2 p.m., Friday, Dec. 9, at Sharon Hills Odd Fellows Cemetery, 35 Rising Sun Road, Camden.

Visit Mr. Drulis’ Life Memorial webpage and sign his virtual guestbook at parsellfuneralhomes.com.

 

 

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