DRUST SR., Robert Joseph

Today's News-Herald, Lake Havasu City, AZ >>> Published on Tuesday, November 29, 2016 <<< Robert “Bob” Joseph Drust Sr., 77, became our Guardian Angel Nov. 11, 2016 at Dobson House, Hospice of the Valley in Phoenix surrounded by his loving family. Born in Toledo, Ohio to Mary Jane (Stayler) and Edward Drust, he graduated from Woodward High School in Toledo. He attended technical schools for automotive repair, electrical and HVAC. He spent his career in maintenance and machine repair for Toledo companies and the Lake Havasu Unified School District. After retiring, he became a valued handyman and “Mr. Fix-It” for family and friends. In 1961, Bob married his one and only, Doris Davis. They made their home in Toledo, Ohio until 1971 when the family moved to Lake Havasu City, which Bob called his “Paradise on Earth.” A charter member of St. Michael’s United Methodist Church, he also belonged to the Elks Lodge. Traveling in their motor home was a favorite pastime while visiting 47 states, Canadian provinces and Mexico. Parking lot tours were part of their adventures when the GPS said to make an immediate U- turn. Bob was a member and Wagonmaster of Lake Havasu Sams and served with Doris as AZ State Good Sam Directors from 2003-2007. He was known as “Keeper of the Keys” and the “Fix-it Guy.” Preceding him in death were his mother and stepfather, Mary Jane and John Opaczewski. Bob is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Doris, son Robert II and wife Margaret, twin grandsons Robert III and Paul, daughter Jennifer Splaver and husband Eric, grandchildren Michelle and Scott, stepsister Debbie (John) Holowacz and four sisters-in-law and their families. A celebration of life is Saturday, Dec. 17, at 11 a.m. at St. Michael’s United Methodist Church. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made Hospice of Havasu, Western Arizona Humane Society, or Hospice of the Valley.