Charles Drerup

Charles Drerup 

Aug. 21, 1950 - 

Jan. 15, 2024 

 Charles Edward Drerup, affectionately known as Chip to his friends and family, was born on Aug. 21, 1950, in McAlester, Okla. He was ushered into heaven on Jan. 15, 2024. His life echoed the sentiments of the biblical verse John 15:13: “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” 

 Chip lived his life as a testament to this verse, demonstrating immense love, courage, and compassion for those around him. 

 Charles, or “Charlie Brown,” as he was fondly called, made his home in Fruitland, Idaho, where he shared his life with his beloved wife, Kay, whom he married on Jan. 7, 2001. As a devoted husband, loving father, cherished  grandfather, and doting great-grandfather, Charles was the epitome of a family man. He was a humble and dedicated hero who served with distinction in the United States Marine Corps for 11 years, attaining the rank of Staff Sgt. while on active duty and Gunnery Sgt. while in the reserves. Charles continued his service to the country with the United States Secret Service Uniform Division, where he established the Emergency Response Team and started a roof watch command post, further cementing his legacy of vigilance and dedication. 

 Despite his notable  achievements, Charles was not one to draw attention to himself, always embodying humility and selflessness. 

 Beyond his professional accomplishments, Charles, or “Chipster” as he was sometimes called, was an exceptionally talented woodworker, an avid fisherman, and an adventurous ATV rider. He had a profound appreciation for the beauty of nature and all of God’s creations. His commitment to service extended into the community where he spearheaded numerous initiatives such as the Christmas Day Dinners for the lonely and the Citizens on Patrol program. His compassion for children and troubled youth led him to establish an after-school mentorship program, earning him the title of a natural born deacon. Charles’ tenacity, courage, and love for others were evident in every aspect of his life, making him a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration for many. 

 Charles is survived by his wife, Kay Drerup; his children, Justin Drerup, Gregory Drerup, Lisa Grant, and Carrie Grant; his grandchildren, Hunter and his wife Sidney, Hailee and her husband Tyler, Josee Grant, Jase Grant, Makayla Mitchell, Samuel Drerup, Christian Drerup; and his great-grandchildren, Paisley Mitchell, Easton Wells, Weston Wells, and Kinzlee Hillman. 

 He is preceded in death by his daughter Angela Drerup, son Aaron Grant, his parents Earl Drerup and Patricia Drerup Halstrom, stepfather Gene Halstrom and his in-laws Doyle and Neola Dunker. 

 In celebration of Charles Drerup’s life, we invite you to share your memories and upload photos of him to the memorial page. 

 May we all remember him for the compassionate, courageous, humble, and loving man that he was, and strive to carry forward the kindness and dedication that he embodied.

 A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 3, at the Weiser Christian Church.