Cory J. Dragos

In Loving Memory of Cory J. Dragos

Cory was born on September 6, 1960 in St. Paul, Minnesota, and passed away on September 28, 2026, in St. Paul, Minnesota, at the age of 66.

He was a jeans-and-T-shirt kind of guy. Blue collar, not fancy, and never one to use a lot of words when a few would do. He had his own sense of humor, a tender heart, and a reserved nature. He wasn't necessarily the guy who would talk your ear off, but there was a good-hearted man beneath that quiet exterior.

Cory loved the outdoors. What began as deer hunting with his dad became a lifelong tradition that he continued through the years. He enjoyed hunting, camping, and being out in the places where he felt most at home. Along the way, he even managed to bring home a moose from one hunting trip—a story that certainly stands out among his outdoor adventures.

He also loved riding his Harley. After numerous back surgeries and medical setbacks, he was making plans to have his motorcycle converted to a three-wheeler so he could continue enjoying something he loved. He was looking forward to getting back out on the road and enjoying the freedom that came with riding.

Cory was mechanically minded and liked working on his own truck whenever he was able. He was a practical, hands-on guy who was more comfortable with a wrench in his hand than with anything too fancy. He approached life in his own way, without much fuss or fanfare.

Cory worked for the University of St. Thomas for many years as a Building Service Worker on the overnight shift. His years there were an important part of his working life.

He had his share of bumps in the road, but he remained the same down-to-earth guy who enjoyed the outdoors, working with his hands, and doing the things he loved. He didn't need a lot of fuss or fancy words to be himself. He was simply Cory, and those who knew him will remember him for his good heart, his unique sense of humor, and the little things that made him who he was.

Cory was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Katey Dragos.

He is survived by his son, Mathew (Amanda); his daughter, Amanda (Noah); his granddaughter, Ananya; his “older sister,” Dorrene (Tim), and his “little sister,” Willie (Joe); and his longtime partner and close friend, Diane. He also leaves behind three nieces and five great-nephews.

As his sisters, there is something about the little things that stays with you. The familiar conversations, the shared history of being family, and especially the way Cory would end a phone call or a visit. He never needed a long, drawn-out goodbye. It was a quick, “I love ya,” followed by, “I'll talk to you when I talk to you and see you when I see you.”

That was Cory. No big speech. No fancy farewell. Just his own way of saying goodbye, leaving the door open for whenever the next conversation might happen.

We will remember Cory for the man he was, the things he loved, and the memories that remain. He was one of a kind, and he will be missed in ways that words can only partly express.

Love ya, Cory. We'll see you when we see you.

Visitation

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at:

Spielman Mortuary 344 University Ave W St. Paul, MN 55103 Phone: (651) 222-6363

A private burial will take place in the spring.

Memorial Contributions

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the American Diabetes Association in Cory's memory.

https://American Diabetes Association/