Mary Colleen Drews

Mary Colleen Drews (Oma)

Mary Colleen (Wireman) Drews, lovingly known as “Oma” to her family and friends, was born on August 26, 1940, in Magoffin County, Kentucky. At the age of one, she moved to Indiana, where she was raised and attended Knox Community Schools, graduating with her high school class. She earned her undergraduate degree in nursing from St. Francis College and later received her Master of Business Administration from the University of Notre Dame. Her career as a nurse and healthcare administrator ultimately led to the development of multiple assisted living facilities in Southern Michigan, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of many.

Oma married her high school classmate, Jim Drews, who survives her. Together, they built a life centered on family, faith, friendship, and love. As a working mother of four, Oma somehow always found time for the people who mattered most. She was the glue that held her extended family together, keeping everyone close through her constant communication, thoughtfulness, and genuine care for others.

Oma treasured her time at the lake and loved escaping to the warmth of the Florida sunshine. She was also known far and wide as a master chef, especially when it came to the beloved “Hillbilly” cuisine passed down through generations. No matter how many people gathered around her table, Oma always made sure there was plenty of food and that no one ever went hungry. Her fried fish, fried potatoes, cornbread, and coleslaw were family favorites that will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of sharing a meal with her.

Her greatest pride and joy were her family. She was the devoted mother of four children, grandmother to 11 grandchildren, and great-grandmother to six great-grandchildren, all of whom knew her affectionately as Oma. She cherished each of them and leaves behind a legacy of love, family traditions, and treasured memories that will continue for generations.

Oma was also a self-taught artist who found great joy in painting and rug crafting. Her creativity was a reflection of her generous spirit, and her paintings are proudly displayed in the homes of family members, friends, and even strangers who discovered and purchased her work at fundraisers and art shows. Through her art, as through her cooking and kindness, Oma shared a little piece of herself with everyone she encountered.

A born-again Christian, Oma lived her faith through her generosity and devotion to others. She gave freely to her church and to the communities in which she lived, always finding ways to make a difference in the lives of those around her.

Oma was preceded in death by her mother, Maude Wireman Forrester; her father, Ishamel Wireman; and her brother, Rhon Wireman. She is survived by her beloved husband, Jim

Drews I; her children, Ginny (Jim) Ingle, Jim II (Molly) Drews, John (Robyn) Drews, and Missy (Jeff) Wilcox; her 11 grandchildren; and her six great-grandchildren.

Oma’s legacy lives on in the family she held so close, the meals she lovingly prepared, the art she created, the faith she shared, and the countless lives she touched. She will be remembered for her generous heart, her welcoming table, her unwavering love for family, and the special way she made everyone feel they belonged. Though she will be deeply missed, the love she gave and the memories she created will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Those wishing to honor Oma’s memory are invited to contribute to the Marian University Drews Scholarship, which supports future nursing students in honor of Oma’s lifelong dedication to nursing and healthcare. To make a gift, please visit: https://www.marian.edu/give-to-marian/giving-forms/give-to-marian-university