Joseph F. Drebes, Sr.

Joseph F. Drebes, Sr. passed away peacefully on March 6, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Runnemede, New Jersey on September 10, 1936, to Henry and Ellen “Lillian” Drebes (née Steinbach), he was a longtime resident of Audubon, New Jersey.

Joe worked for 43 years as a New Jersey Licensed Well Driller with the Layne Well Drilling Company, retiring in 1998. A member of the International Operating Engineers Union, Local 825, he was also a dedicated volunteer on the battleship USS New Jersey in Camden for nearly two decades. He enjoyed vacationing with family in the Outer Banks, fishing, spending time outdoors, volunteering at church, and cheering for Philadelphia sports teams, especially the Phillies, Flyers, and Eagles. He loved gathering with others at family events, his weekly bowling league, and on the battleship, where his friendly and pleasant nature made him a welcome presence. Known for his playful cheating at horseshoes and cards, Joe cherished time with his grandchildren and brought warmth and humor to every setting.

Above all, Joe will be remembered for his loving, tender heart, his fun-loving spirit, and his genuine kindness. A rock-solid and decent man, he was happily married to the love of his life, Florence Drebes (née Sleeper), for 66 years.

He is survived by his sons, Joseph Jr. (Jody née West), Robert (Helen née Pente), and Jeff (Kelley née Draham); grandchildren Fletcher Drebes and Nicole Stallard; great-grandchildren Aiden, Brody, and Chloe; sister Mary Alcorn; brother John Drebes; and many nieces and nephews who adored him. He was predeceased by his grandson Ian Drebes and his siblings William Drebes, Henrietta Foster, and Lillian Errickson.