Frederick Alan Drenning, 84, of York, died peacefully at home during the sunrise on Thursday, July 30th, 2026. He received expert hospice care during the final year of his long battle with prostate cancer, facing it with remarkable strength and courage. His family lovingly supported him throughout his journey. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Susan Berdella Snyder Drenning (d. Aug. 4th, 2023), with whom he shared 58 years of marriage.  

Fred was born on February 1, 1942, to Erma and Clark Drenning in York, PA. He graduated from William Penn High School in 1959 and Penn State University in 1963. After being commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Air Force, Fred completed flight school in Waco, Texas, and was stationed at Mather Air Force Base in Sacramento, CA, where he flew B-52s. He married Susan in York over Memorial Day weekend in 1965. Soon after, Fred was transferred to Loring Air Force Base north of Bangor, Maine, where the young couple welcomed their first child. After completing his military service in 1968, Fred pursued opportunities with Traveler’s Insurance and Multicon Development Company in Philadelphia, PA. The Drennings later relocated to Grand Rapids, Michigan, with Multicon and welcomed their second child. After Fred became Multicon’s regional manager for the Southeast, the family moved to Atlanta, GA, where they welcomed their third child. His success led to a position with Redman Development Company, where he oversaw southeastern developments. Fred later joined Klingbeil Company in Columbus, Ohio, and the Drennings happily settled in Upper Arlington, Ohio, where they welcomed their fourth child and remained for the next 28 years. He invested in Pace Industries, a soft-serve ice cream company, before transitioning into land management and building development. Through his own company, he developed strip malls, neighborhoods, and buildings throughout the Gahanna, Hilliard, and Dublin areas of Columbus. He also built more than 20 homes in PGA golf pro Jack Nicklaus’ exclusive Muirfield development.

While living in Columbus, the Drennings joyfully raised four wonderful children, and Fred stayed deeply engaged in his community by supporting school programs and church activities. He devoted many hours to mission work with King Avenue United Methodist Church and led a campaign to help rebuild the bell tower. A proud and devoted father, Fred enthusiastically championed his children’s activities. From football and track to musicals, show choir, marching band, and clubs, Fred and Susan were always among the first to cheer, host, or volunteer.  

In 2000, Fred and Susan chose to return to their hometown of York, PA, and begin developing the area surrounding the home they would later build. Their family residence stands on the Snyder family farm, purchased in 1912. Fred and Susan envisioned a planned community that encouraged walking and neighborly connection. With more than 90 acres available, they first approved construction of a low-income senior apartment complex. Fred and his sons then built the centerpiece of Villas on the Lake: 240 ranch-style condominiums. Finally, they turned their attention to single-family houses, including their forever home. Countless memories were made around the pool, pond, bar, and play areas of that remarkable place. 

In York, Fred continued supporting many organizations, with a special love for aiding animals through groups such as the World Wildlife Federation, the Humane Society, ASPCA, and PETA. Fred and Susan also volunteered regularly at the downtown York soup kitchen and felt deeply for those experiencing homelessness. Generous and spontaneous, Fred quietly assisted people in ways that changed lives, often by recognizing their potential and encouraging them behind the scenes. He was a strong patron of the arts, including the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, the York Symphony Orchestra, and the Strand Theater. Classical music brought Fred great joy; he grew up playing the trombone and singing in various groups, and he especially admired Mozart and Dvořák. He enjoyed having classical music playing softly throughout the house. While living in Columbus, Fred completed hospice training and volunteered for many years. 

Fred loved collecting beautiful objects, especially jewelry, art, and antiques. He was highly knowledgeable and an avid fan of Antique Week and Antiques Roadshow.  Fred and Susan both enjoyed gardening and swimming in their pool every day. He cherished the outdoors and bought a farm in southeastern Ohio where he spent weekends hiking, hunting, fishing, and exploring with his family. Fred and Susan also relished family road trips, singing along to oldies and stopping at Waffle House as they drove to Florida or Colorado. They traveled frequently in Europe, with many trips to France, Germany, and Sweden. Fred and Susan also shared two unforgettable journeys: one to Bethlehem and Jerusalem, and another to South Africa. They especially treasured taking the whole family to Turks and Caicos to celebrate his 65th birthday.

Fred was a gifted entertainer and gracious host. He and Susan welcomed many friends of all ages and from all walks of life. Fred enjoyed serving good food and drinks and always kept a well-stocked bar ready. He studied viticulture and developed a deep appreciation for fine wine, taking great pleasure in pairing it with exceptional meals.

As an only child, Fred cherished one-on-one time with others. He especially delighted in hosting his children and grandchildren for special visits, taking time to know them deeply. One of his favorite pastimes was sharing thoughtful conversation over coffee. Fred valued creativity and liked writing short stories for his grandchildren, especially tales about a praying mantis named Skinny.

Fred was devoted to his family and a loyal husband who found great joy in his true love. He will be dearly missed, and we find comfort knowing that Fred and Susan are surely dancing together again.  Fred is survived by his children, Jennie Rebecca (Drenning) Glenn and her husband, Jeffrey; Clark Patterson Drenning; Frederick Harrison Drenning and his wife, Jessica Howe; and Jessica Sue (Drenning) Mason and her husband, Matthew; as well as ten grandchildren: Dalton, Daisy, and Delia Glenn; Blake and Cody Drenning; Savannah, Sophia, Brodie, and Benjamin Mason; and Graeme Trujillo.

Funeral services are scheduled for 2:00 PM Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Kuhner Associates Funeral Directors, Inc., 863 South George Street, York, with Jonathan Bausman officiating. A reception with the family will immediately follow. Burial is scheduled for 10:00 AM Sunday, October 18, 2026, at Fairview Cemetery Wrightsville, with military honors presented by the York County Veterans Honor Guard.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Bell Socialization Services, 160 South George Street, York, PA 17401 or online at bellsocialization.com or to a charity of your choice in support of cancer patients.