Thomas E. Drachenberg

Thomas Eric Drachenberg, beloved husband, father and grandfather, accomplished veteran, and avid outdoorsman, peacefully passed away on November 12, 2023.

Born on January 15, 1948, in New Britain, where he was raised and educated, he was one of two sons to the late John and Thelma (Rinas) Drachenberg.  He and his wife, best friend and travel partner Lois (Roberts) shared over 50 years of love and life adventures and settled in Plainville where they raised their daughter. 

As a young man, Tom was called to serve his country during the Vietnam War, proudly serving in the United States Marine Corps.  His time in the military shaped his values of bravery, loyalty, and perseverance, which he carried throughout his life.  Tom possessed remarkable skills as a handy man, had an innate ability to fix anything that crossed his path and could always be relied upon to find a solution. A deep thinker with a sharp mathematical mind, his brilliance extended to his love for music, where he skillfully mastered various musical instruments including the piano, accordion, guitar and drums.  The great outdoors was Thomas's sanctuary, and he found tranquility and joy in exploring nature's beauty. His love for camping, canoeing, fishing, and hiking knew no bounds.  Remembered for his sociable nature, had a way of making everyone around him feel comfortable and valued, most especially amongst the Laotian community. His presence at any gathering would light up the room, and his zest for life was contagious.  Tom lived a life filled with adventure, dedication, and a profound love for family, nature, and his country.  His passing leaves a void in the hearts of those he loved, but his impact will be cherished forever.

In addition to his wife, Lois, he leaves his daughter Amanda Hintz and her husband Keith of Bristol; and his granddaughter, Elizabeth Hintz of Somersworth, NH.  He also leaves his brother, Robert Drachenberg; his sister-in-law Diana Drachenberg, her son Jacob and his two children of Western Australia; his niece Bonnie Benson and her husband Robert of New Britain, and nephews Michael Johnston of New Britain, Richard Johnston and his husband Joseph Perkins of Revere, MA and James Daoust of Aurora, CO; and his much loved feline companion “Kitty” who will greatly miss their evening games of catch and morning treats. 

In lieu of flowers, Tom may be remembered with contributions to the Connecticut Humane Society, 701 Russell Rd. Newington, CT 06111.

Family and friends may gather in celebration of Tom’s life on Monday November 20, 2023 from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad St, Plainville.  Words of Remembrance led by Life Celebrant Jesse Gnazzo will be shared at 6:00 p.m., followed by military honors.  For online expressions of sympathy, please visit www.plainvillefuneralhome.com

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