Drew Ryan Anderson, 22, of Kansas City, KS., passed away Saturday, October 1, 2011 at K U Medical Center in Kansas City, KS. He will forever be remembered as a loving son, brother, grandson, nephew and friend to everyone he met. Drew was born on May 24, 1989 in Neu-Ulm, Germany to Kent and Wendee (Kost) Anderson. He suffered from muscular dystrophy since childhood. Drew graduated from Piper High School in 2007, and attended The University of Kansas School of Journalism and Mass Communications. He graduated with a degree in May of 2011. During college, Drew also served as Copy chief for the University Daily Kansan, and intern for the Lawrence Journal World. Drew was a crazy, die-hard KU sports fan. and kept himself very active with the Muscular Dystrophy Assoc. He was also a member of VFW Post #6654 auxiliary in Desoto, KS. Drew is preceded in death by his grandfather; Richard Kost, and his faithful companion Cleo. Survivors include his parents; Kent and Wendee Anderson of the home, along with his brother; Tanner Anderson, grandmother; Frances Kost, grandfather; John Rosenbaum and his wife Ellen of Metamora, IL., grandparents; Gary Anderson and his wife Marilyn of Lawrence, KS. and Virgil Newell and his wife Alice of Baldwin City, KS., great grandmothers; Beulah Anderson, Lenora Crumet both of Lawrence, KS., and Shirley Rosenbaum of Metamora, IL. Drew is also survived by many aunts, uncles and cousins. Funeral Services will be 9:30 a.m. Thursday, October 6, 2011 at St. Patrick Catholic Church 1086 N. 94th Street Kansas City, KS. Burial in Gate Of Heaven Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be 5:00-8:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 5, 2011 at the Chapel Hill-Butler Funeral Home. In Lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to: The Muscular Dystrophy Association 8700 Indian Creek Pkwy. Suite #340 Overland Park, KS. 66210. Condolences may be left at www.chapelhill-butler.com.
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April 5, 2012
Emily Potter
Drew.-
I have known you since we were little, little. You leaving us makes me more sad that I moved to CO in 3rd grade. That was the last time I saw you, but I remember so much of you, still! I remember you were always a sweetheart and had a great sense of humor. You were always happy to be with everyone. You are an amazing person. So much love to you, Drew.
October 22, 2011
Diane, Gary, Matthew, Marissa Smith
We last saw Drew at the KU graduation in May. Gary and I always loved seeing him wherever we went...be it while he was growing up at the elementary school
October 12, 2011
Ashlynn Puterbaugh
RIP Drew we will miss you
October 11, 2011
Mary Jo Turner
Kent, Wendee, and Tanner....So sorry for your loss. When I met Drew at Jennifer and Stu's wedding I knew he was an extraordinary person. I am sure he is looking down on you now with a smile on his face.
October 10, 2011
Kent and Wendee,
Pat and I just heard about the loss of your son. I just saw him at KU a couple of weeks ago and we spoke for a few minutes about his graduation from KU.
Our family recalls many memories of your family at the softball games. Our prayers and thoughts are with all of you during this time of great loss.
Peggy Callahan
October 7, 2011
Garot Pflumm
Dear Wendee & Family:
There are, I'm positive, 1000 reasons why the loss of your son is, to say the least, a travesty. I certainly wouldn't mention those that come to my mind, in case it might add to the list in yours.
My wife and I lost our 5-month old son 2+ yrs. ago. I never had a chance in only five months to know, grow, create memories, or the million other things you've experienced in his lifetime, together. I know you will always cherish those moments in your heart. Keep him alive in your thoughts. He will always be smiling from above, thinking of you and yours. He is now in utter peace; running, jumping, free and able to do all and anything that he may have been limited from while here on Earth.
Our deepest sympathy to you and your Family,
Garot & Marisol Pflumm, & family
October 7, 2011
Larry Lindstrom
I'ts always gratifing to hear about people like Drew who not only brought joy into other peoples lives after knowing him,but also left a positive and lasting imprint on them.
I did'nt know him personally but based on what others have written about him it reinforces the idea that I hope to make a positive impact on the people I know.
It seems that he had a firm grasp on the thought "PAY it FORWARD"
TO quote another famous author,"Well done good and faithful servant"
October 7, 2011
Rollie & Stephanie Cain
Sorry for your loss... Thinking of you guys during this difficult time..
October 7, 2011
Susan Roberts
Drew worked for me as an intern at the Lawrence Journal-World. He was remarkable for his ability to get things done. He maneuvered through snowstorms to get to his bus stop, he made it to work in pouring rain, and once he had to wait out the St. Patrick's Day parade downtown to get to the Journal-World. His neck was a little sunburned that day, but he was on time! I always wanted to write a letter of recommendation for him that included "Neither rain nor sleet nor snow nor a St. Patrick's Day parade will stop Drew from getting to work on time."
He was a careful and conscientious copy editor. I loved his work ethic -- once I asked him, 'Would you rather proofread the weekend editorial pages or put together the puzzle page?' His reply: "What would be most helpful for you?" (!!!)
I'm so glad I got to work with Drew!
October 6, 2011
Jason Stary
I'm glad I got to meet Drew and spend some time with him. His courage and determination are inspirational.
October 6, 2011
Meredith DeNoon
Your entire softball family misses you Drew! Thank you for providing us with tons of laughs out at the ball field! You will never be forgotten! Kent, Wendee and Tanner we love you and are here for you!
Love: Meredith & Tony
October 6, 2011
Michelle Kuzmic
Kent, Wendee & Tanner,
We are so sorry for your loss. Keeping you and your family in our thoughts and prayers.
October 6, 2011
Matthew Holyfield
To all who don't know. Drew and I played teeball together. Even though he only got on base once in two years he loved to play the game. He was a great freind to all that he would come into contact with. He was always open and always funny. He had a big heart for all. When ever you talked with Drew you would always laugh. "Drew you where a great person, friend, and teeball teammate. you will always be in the hearts, thoughts, and prayers of those that cared for you, you will forever be missed and forever loved. may you rest in internal greatness. Tell that day we can play ball yet again. love your friend and teammate." my prayers go out to all of the family memebers of Drew. He was the best of use all!
October 6, 2011
Steven & Rosemary Pflumm
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
October 5, 2011
Candy Holyfield
Every time I step into Pierces room (your old room when you lived in this neighborhood) I think of you.Its comforting to know that you are a part of our homes history. You are missed so much.You're such an amazing person............Kent,Wendee and Tanner,our thoughts and prayers are with you.....
October 5, 2011
Candy Holyfield
Every time I walk into Pierces room (your old room)I think of you.You will be so missed........and to Kent and Wendee and Tanner,you are in our thoughts and prayers.......
October 5, 2011
Jim & Becky Gunzenhauser
Kent, Wendee, and Tanner: Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Drew was an amazing young man that accomplished more than most people dream of. May God bless and God speed.
October 5, 2011
LeRoy/Luella Davis
Kent, Wendee, Tanner -
Our hearts are heavy with grief at the loss of Drew. It's hard to realize why things happen like they do, but God is in control. Drew has a new body and is happy in his new home. God bless you all.
October 5, 2011
LeRoy and Luella Davis
Kent, Wendee and Tanner,
We are so very sorry for your loss. Drew was a special young man and we know there will be a big void in your lives. We are all unable to know God's plans and it is hard to accept what is. God bless all of you. Drew now has a strong body to walk through heaven. Our prayers for each of you.
October 5, 2011
Kylen Wilder
Drew, you were like my big brother. I am going to miss you a lot but I know you are running around smiling at all of us for being here for you. I love you Drew and I will always remember what you have taught me.
October 5, 2011
Sharlene Uzelac
My deepest sympathies go out to the Anderson family. Drew was a remarkable person; so smart, funny and such a sweetie. He was an inspiration to all who knew him. I am honored to have known him. May God comfort all of you and give you peace.
October 5, 2011
Lalo & Lesa Salazar
Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
October 5, 2011
Kelly Long
Drew was by far the best example, to all who were lucky enough to know him, of how to live your life to the fullest. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Anderson family during this tough time.
October 5, 2011
Julie Loring
Drew.. a true pleasure to work with you while you were at KU. Rock Chalk Jayhawk!!!
October 5, 2011
Kent, Wendee and Tanner:
Drew was such a wonderful young man with a great sense of hurmor.
He was an inspiration to all of us that was blessed to meet him.
Words cannot express the sorrow we feel for your loss. Our thouthts and prayers are with you and your families. Rock Chalk, Jayhawks Drew!!!!
(Blake Davis and Bret Messer's Grandparents)
Jean and Paul Pagacz, Shawnee, KS
October 5, 2011
Melanie Vogts
Kent, Wendee, and Tanner: You are in my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Drew was such a joy to talk to. He always had a smile and something funny to say. May God hold all of you in his hand during this time off loss to comfort and console you. Sincerely,
Melanie and Tim Vogts
Steven Horseman
Dallas Hodge
October 5, 2011
Staci Butrick
I am so so sorry for your loss. My thoughts, love and prayers are always with you.
October 4, 2011
Greg & Yvette Koehler
Wendee, Kent and Family,
Faith-knows that God has answers for questions that seem impossible.....Hope-holds onto the promise that no farewell is forever.....Love-understands that it still hurts to say goodbye......May God hold you in his arms & heal the sorrow that you feel!
I can tell from reading all about Drew that he was a very special person and you both were such wonderful parents too him. May you find the comfort you need til you meet again.
October 4, 2011
We are so very sorry to hear of your tragic loss! Drew was a wonderful young man who inspired so many with his zest for life and never ending resilience. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Kay and Steve Luft
October 4, 2011
Gary, our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Vic and Margie.
October 4, 2011
Renee Cooper
My thoughts and prayers are with your family. I was blessed to have gotten to know Drew during his time at Piper High.
October 4, 2011
Drew will be greatly missed by us all. There was never a time when we didn't laugh at something he had an "opinion" about, usually related to KU! Drew was a constant reminder to us all, that you take what life gives you and you live it to the fullest! Our continued prayers to you Kent, Wendee and Tanner. We are thinking or you.
Brandi and Dan Fernandez
October 4, 2011
K Murry
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
October 4, 2011
Megan Barkley
I wish unending strength to the Anderson family. Drew was such a loving and inspiring person; so beautiful. He taught me how to love every one, without judgement. I lived behind him in Prairie Oaks for 6 years. He will forever be in my thoughts.
October 4, 2011
Michelle Messer
Kent, Wendee, and Tanner:
My heart is aching that such a wonderful young man is no longer here. We will never forget all the baseball games and the 'one liners' Drew always had for Carl. It didn't matter what or how Carl teased him, Drew always had the best come backs. Drew will be in our memories for a long time to come!! All our love!!
October 4, 2011
Vern Lynn
The amount of time in your life is not important. It's the life in your time. Drew exemplified that. My thoughts are with the entire Anderson Family.
October 4, 2011
Jim and Mary Pollock
Kent and family,
The world has lost a wonderful person who inspired many! Always smiling, always positive, he was a light that shined brightly. Our thougths and prayers are with you!
October 4, 2011
Mary Jo Dowell
My sincere sympathy. Drew was an outstanding person.
October 4, 2011
Kent, Wendee, and Tanner
I'm very sorry for your loss of a very great and oustanding son. Drew will be missed by all who knew him for his postive attitude and his acomplishments. Our thoughts and prayers go out to your family.
The Miskec's
October 4, 2011
Angie Hills
Drew you taught me more than you will ever know about friendship, loyalty,and living life your way. You were an amazing person and this earth was blessed to have you for the 22 years that it did. You will be missed so much, and you will be in my heart for the rest of time. Wendee, Kent and Tanner my thoughts and praryers are with you.
October 4, 2011
Carrie Duffett
Wendee and Kent you both have been my friend for a long time and I cannot image the pain you are suffering I wish I could take that away. Just know that god is with you. Drew was a very special person and he will be missed dearly.
Love Carrie Duffett
October 4, 2011
Danielle Forsyth
Drew, I saw you the evening before your KU graduation and you were so jubilant; of course, I think you might have been that way all the time! I'm forever grateful to you for bringing my dear sister and your best friend together. It was an honor to join you as we served the roles of matron of honor and best man at their wedding. I wish I'd gotten the chance to know you better. You have touched so many lives in beautiful ways. May you rest in peace and may God bless your loved ones.
October 4, 2011
Jeff Long
I didn't get the chance to know you well, but I knew you were a kind-hearted person, and I wish I would've gotten to know you better. RIP Drew...you're in a better place now.
October 4, 2011
Cheryl Purinton
What an inspiration this young man was. Even with his disabilities he conquered all. it was a pleasure to have known this fine young man. My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this very sad time.
October 4, 2011
Debbie Breuer
Our heart is reaching out to you in sympathy and prayer. What a wonderful young man. He touched so many. You have to be so proud of him. He will be forever missed!
October 4, 2011
Joe & Debi Ward
Kent, Wendee, Tanner & extended family....Drew filled a very large space here on this earth during his short stay. He did more with his life than most able bodied individuals will ever do. He always kept on keeping on. I smile,knowing that he and his Grandpa Richard are running through heaven together. Words can't ease your aching hearts. But, know that, we, along with so many others care, are praying for you and thinking of you all.
October 4, 2011
Wendee and family, I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers go to you and your extended families.
Pam Snell
October 4, 2011
Theresa Smith
My prayers and thoughts are with you. It was a pleasure for me to work with Drew the few years at school. He is an inspiration to others. Theresa Smith
October 4, 2011
Anita Donham
Wendee, Kent and Tanner, words cannot express the sorrow I feel for you with the lost of such a wonderful young man. I will always remember him as a smiling and happy guy. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Just remember he will always be with you.
October 3, 2011
jason brown
drew...you will forever be remembered as the most kind-hearted person i've ever met. you will be missed.
October 3, 2011
allison knetter
Drew I will never forget the possitive attitude you had through pt and ot all those years. You were an inspiration to me everytime I saw you. I will always miss you. Thoughts and prayers are with the Anderson Family.
October 3, 2011
Jamie Howell
Your on of a kind Drew..... you are loved an deeply missed... but i know your watching over us...
October 3, 2011
Henry & Jennifer Peavler
Kent, Wendee, and Tanner: Our hearts go out to you. We remember Drew at the ball park when we all used to play together and he was always such a happy kid, and always had a big smile on his face! God bless you all - you are in our thoughts and prayers.
October 3, 2011
Meagan Patrzykont
Such a beautiful person. I smile knowing that he's up in Heaven walking, laughing, and watching down on everyone he loves. Drew, you're so sorely missed and thank you so much for being such an inspiration.
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