DREWERY, Randy

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Randy Stephen Drewery, 55, of ALS. He is survived by his beloved wife Michelle (nee Baccin) of 30 years. He is the devoted dad to Darian (Lance), Dania, Denver, and predeceased by his son Devin. Randy is the loving son of Shirley (nee Williams) and the late Floyd “Pop”, brother to Kevin and Carolyn (Tim). He is survived by his in-laws Anna (nee Dissegna) and Giovanni, Pat (Angela) and Dennis (Melissa). He will be greatly missed by his nieces and nephews, Kylie (Nathan), Randy, Andrew (Felicia), Felicity, Mattea, Paige, Morgan (Matthew), Brent, Chad and predeceased by Kyle and Kaitlyn. His great nieces and nephews, extended family, friends, neighbors, co-workers will surely miss him.

Randy was a well loved and respected Program Manager of Forestry for the City of Guelph. In his dedication of 29 years to our City, he wore many hats beginning in 1991 as Landscape Restoration Supervisor in the Public Works Department. In his last years with the City, he led the creation and development of the forestry Unit known for its progressive operations, team member development and a safety-first culture. Randy was invaluable to the development and implementation of the City’s strategy to deal with emerald ash borer, the street tree inventory and the creation of a functional Urban Forest Management Plan.

Randy was a champion to a one-city mindset and inter-departmental collaboration on the many project tables he had been involved with and has carried this attitude through his day to day work. His high regard for resident satisfaction and fiscal responsibility along with his exceptional leadership, technical guidance and expertise has resulted in a number of celebrated successes for the community at large.

His love for the canopy, his passion for the community and his drive for excellence in customer service has been missed since his leave in 2020. He remained steadfast, committed to his work, to “his” forest, to his team, and the positive profile it has today. Resident emails regarding tree removals are often filled with praise and considered “a ballet in motion” by some. His oversight to start and finish each job, his interaction with contractors, vendors and community groups along with his vast knowledge, is a tribute to his career and as a professional in the industry. The department, the forest and community could always count on him to be there with dedication and passion.

As an avid gardener, Randy spent much of his time perfecting the gardens surrounding his home. The outdoors was a great love of his and spending it camping with his family was a favourite past time. He loved his hockey, whether it was playing, supporting his three children at their hockey games and practices or cheering on his Boston Bruins.

Randy charmed everyone with his intelligence, quick wit and humour. His silent disposition and infectious smile was a magnet for everyone. Anyone who knew him, loved him wholeheartedly and unconditionally. He will always be remembered by anyone who had the privilege of crossing his path.
Many thanks to the nurses and doctors at the GGH for their compassion and ensuring Randy was in peace and comfort to his last breath.

Resting at Gilbert MacIntyre and Son Funeral Home, Hart Chapel, 1099 Gordon Street, Guelph where the family will receive friends and family on Thursday, May 5, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. Celebration of Life will be held at the Italian Canadian Club of Guelph at 135 Ferguson Street, Guelph on Friday, May 6 at 7:00PM.

Donations in memory of Randy would be appreciated to the ALS Society or Children’s Foundation of Guelph and Wellington.

As a memorial to Randy, consider planting a tree.