Lee S. Drendel

Lee S. Drendel, 94, of Springfield, peacefully passed away at 3:19 a.m. on Wednesday, July 25, 2012 at his home. Lee was born August 30, 1917 in Springfield, the son of Solon and Flora Buecker Drendel. He married Juanita Rigg in 1940 and she preceded him in death. Lee was a graduate of Springfield High School and attended Springfield Junior College for two years. He earned his Bachelor's Degree in Business from Northwestern University. He and his wife founded Capitol Plumbing and Heating Supply Company, which later became Capitol Group. He was a founding member of CL Watt and Distronics Inc. Lee developed numerous condo complexes in the Naples, FL area. He was also an original member of Royal Poinciana Country Club in Naples. He also belonged to Illini Country Club in Springfield. Lee was also president of Springfield Airport Authority and a member of the Springfield Coal Commission. Other clubs included Allen Gun Club and Bojo Club in Canada. Lee enjoyed hunting, fishing, travelling, and golf. He was also preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Janice Drendel Buecker; and sister, Selma Williamson. He is survived by his son, Gene (Janette) Drendel of Springfield; daughter, Donna (Bubba) Nelson of Springfield; five grandchildren, Tricia (John) Becker of Springfield, Mark Nelson of Madison, WI, Mandy Drendel of Chicago, Doug Drendel of Springfield, and Laura Buecker of Springfield; and three great-grandchildren, Brian, Megan and Rachel Becker, all of Springfield. Visitation: Family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. on Monday, July 30, 2012 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Graveside Ceremony: Private services will be held at Oak Ridge Cemetery with Pastor Jeff Nelsen officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to: Memorial Health Systems Hospice, 720 N. Bond, Springfield, IL 62702 or Our Savior's Lutheran Church, 2645 Old Jacksonville Rd., Springfield, IL 62704.