James Joseph Drow

James Joseph Drow, known lovingly as Jim, passed away on February 1, 2026, in Winter Park, Florida, surrounded by his family. Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Jim was the son of Ervin and Pauline Drow and the eldest brother to Joyce Losey, Lynda Claytor, and Christine Gozzola. After attending Marquette University, Jim worked in the field of Risk Management as a Professional Engineer. Jim married Sharon Spranger in 1970. Together they shared many years raising a loving family, a bond that remained an important part of his life. Jim was a devoted father to five children: Mike (Bethany), Bob (Jen), Alan (Amy), Brian, and Christy (Matt). He was joyful and mischievous, filling the home with laughter, taking his family on trips, and playfully challenging his children to various games and sports. He could frequently be found with a camcorder in hand, documenting seemingly ordinary moments that have since become some of the family’s most cherished memories. Jim’s greatest pride was being Grandpa to nine grandchildren: Kayla, Jack, Charlie, Emily, Jimmy, Luke, Charlotte, Benjamin, and Sawyer. Famously known as “Inappropriate Grandpa”, Jim fully embraced this role. His children and grandchildren adored him for it. His humor was unique, clever, and always unforgettable. He had a sharp wit and never took himself too seriously. When jokingly asked by his daughter-in-law, “What’s wrong with you?”, he laughed and replied, “It would be easier to list what was right.” Jim had a remarkable way of celebrating his family, doing his best to never miss a game, birthday, dance recital, or concert. He proudly framed his grandchildren’s finger paintings, leaving them hanging years after the children grew. He took genuine pride in each person’s accomplishments and made sure his family always knew how proud he was, never failing to point out the good he saw in them. Dubbing himself the family’s “Social Secretary”, he’d be the first to wish a happy birthday, anniversary, or other personal milestone, reminding everyone else to do the same so that no person would go uncelebrated. Even when his health was failing, his focus was his family, making sure to check in and send encouraging, uplifting words when he felt they were needed most. He carried through life a blend of humor, determination, and deep affection for those he loved. He was not extravagant and never pursued material things; what mattered most to him was faith and family. His Catholic faith quietly guided his life. He had a thoughtful, personal faith rooted in his deep trust in God. The words chosen for his gravestone reflect the life he lived: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” - 2 Timothy 4:7-8 A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Mary, Mother of God Chapel at San Pedro Spiritual Development Center, 95 Bishop Grady Ln, Winter Park, FL 32792. Bishop John Noonan, Ordinary of the Diocese of Orlando, will celebrate Mass. All who knew and loved Jim are invited to attend and celebrate his wonderful life. Flowers and condolences may be sent to San Pedro Spiritual Development Center, 95 Bishop Grady Ln, Winter Park, FL 32792. Jim leaves behind a legacy of laughter, faith, humility, and deep devotion to his family. He will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered. May he rest in eternal peace. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. Amen.

James Joseph Drow

March 17, 1946 - February 1, 2026