
Frederick J. Drenckhahn, 100, a lifelong resident of Stamford, CT, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2026. He was a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend who will be greatly missed.
Fred was born on July 29, 1926, in Greenwich, CT, the son of John A. Drenckhahn and Helen M. Fink, and the brother of John Drenckhahn Jr., Helen Keeley, and Barbara Loughran.
In the summer of 1944, just before his senior year at Stamford High School, he was drafted into military service. During World War II, Fred served with distinction in General Patton's 3rd Army and fought in the Battle of the Bulge. For his brave service as a Sergeant First Class in the Artillery Corps, he was awarded the Bronze Service Star.
Returning home, he began his apprenticeship as an electrician and worked for John A. Drenckhahn Electrical Contractors until retiring in 1986.
Fred was a dedicated member and past commander of Springdale Post 9617 VFW. For 30 years, without fail, he constructed, decorated, and drove the VFW float in every Memorial and Veterans' Day parade to honor his fellow veterans and all who served alongside him.
He was also a lifelong parishioner of St. Cecilia's Church and a member of various organizations, including the German American Club, the Knights of Columbus, and the Piedmont Club.
In his free time, Fred was an avid gardener – he took great pride and pleasure in his flower beds, vegetable garden, and yard.
Fred was predeceased by his devoted wife of 58 years, Elaine; their son, James; and his brother, John.
Fred is survived by his children, Frederic, Richard (Cathy), William, Frank (Yuri), and Marianne (Don); his daughter-in-law Kim Drenckhahn; his grandchildren, Kristin Marcus, Jonathan Drenckhahn, Anna Rothman, Nicole Drenckhahn, Brien Drenckhahn, Lauren Brown, Stephanie Drenckhahn Alvarado, Danielle Haight, Drew Haight, and Melanie Haight; his great-grandchildren, Alex Marcus, Christopher Marcus, Matthew Marcus, Thomas Marcus, Peyton Marcus, Charlotte Drenckhahn, Katie Drenckhahn, Vivienne Drenckhahn, Oliver Rothman, August Drenckhahn, and Penelope Brown.
The family would like to thank Fred's dedicated aides, SP and Keisha, for their excellent support over the past year.
Fred will be remembered for his positive attitude in the face of challenges, his kind heart, and his readiness to lend a hand to anyone in need. He touched the lives of all who knew him.
Family and friends will be received on Sunday, September 20, from 4:00–8:00 PM at Thomas M. Gallagher Funeral Home, 104 Myrtle Ave., Stamford, CT. A funeral Mass will be held on Monday, September 21, at 10:30 AM at St. Cecilia's Church, Stamford, CT. Burial will follow at St. John's Cemetery, Darien, CT.