Born on May 19, 1937, in Shannon, Illinois, Ethel attended Polo High School in Polo, Illinois. She later built a career in food service, dedicating many years as the head of food service for Business Men’s Assurance Company in Kansas City, Missouri.
Ethel was deeply involved in her faith and community. She was a devoted member of both St. Raphael’s Catholic Church and St. Gabriel’s Catholic Church. Her commitment to her church extended beyond worship; she found great joy in organizing Lenten fish fries at St. Raphael’s and later at St. Gabriel’s for 15 years. Her faith also led her on travels to Poland and various European sites alongside Father Joe and friends from St. Gabe’s.
Beyond her professional and religious life, Ethel was an auxiliary spouse member of the VFW Claycomo and had a passion for cooking. She also had a deep love for her dogs, Bridget, Buzzy, and JoJo—who brought her immense joy over the years.
Ethel was preceded in death by her husband, Albert A. DeGhelder. She leaves behind her daughter, Debbie Drummond; granddaughter, Sydney Madeleine Drummond; and son-in-law, Thomas Drummond III.
A viewing will be held on Monday, March 17, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at McGilley Antioch Chapel, 3325 NE Vivion Rd, Kansas City, Missouri 64119. A graveside service will follow at approximately 2:30 PM at Mount Olivet Catholic Cemetery, 7601 Blue Ridge Blvd, Raytown, Missouri 64138. For those needing transportation from McGilley to Mount Olivet, an SUV will be available—please see Olivia, Debbie, or Tom for assistance.
Ethel's memory will live on through those who knew and cared for her. Mostly, she will be missed by her family, Debbie, precious Sydney and Tom.
