Manfred H. (Manni) Driesner, age 81 of Highland, IL, died Friday, May 17, 2024, at his home in Highland, IL.
He was born on June 11, 1942, in Linde East Prussia, Germany. He immigrated with his family to the US in December, 1958; enthusiastically embraced the culture and traditions of his new homeland; graduated from Highland High School in 1960; continued his studies at Greenville College and later at SIUE where he received his BA in German and History, and worked towards his Master’s degree; served in the Army from 1962-64 as an MP and member of the pistol team; and became a proud American citizen in November of 1970. He was highly intelligent, highly motivated, meticulous in his work, and extremely industrious. At various times in his life, he worked as a farmhand; an automotive mechanic; a soldering instructor; a teacher of German, Latin American History, and Illinois History at Wesclin High School; a mailer for the Post Dispatch; and a maker of organ pipes for Wicks Organ Co.
He also served as a Deacon and choir member, but mostly as a Trustee of the First Baptist Church in Highland where he spent many hours keeping the building, equipment, and grounds in good shape. He had a natural propensity for mechanics and engineering, an encyclopedic knowledge of history and geography, and a thorough grasp of the inner workings of politics which he loved discussing. Through copious reading, he kept himself informed about current events, and was particularly fascinated with Biblical history, sharing his knowledge for over 50 years with his adult Sunday school class.
He was married for 54 years to Linda (Whitten) Driesner; was a devoted husband and father to Kristina, Stefan, Kurt, and Katrin; and a loving grandfather to Brendan, Micah, Tanner, Abigail, Emma, Claire, Vega, Sophia, Anneliese, Olive, Oskar, and Jane. In the course of his life, he traveled extensively with his family, visiting at least 45 of the 50 US states as well as a dozen European countries. He was devoted to his Christian faith, successful in every aspect of his life, adored by his family, well-loved and respected by his friends and colleagues, and an asset to his community and country. Although heaven is now enriched by his presence, he will be sorely missed by all those he has left behind.
Arrangements are being handled by Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland, IL.
Funeral Service is Monday, May 20, 2024, at First Baptist Church in Highland, IL, with Rev. Cody D. Knapik, Pastor, officiating.
Interment was at Highland City Cemetery in Highland, IL.
Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church or Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.
