Drew Measels

1969 ~ 2022

Obituary Photo for Drew Measels < >

Graveside Service

17111 South Redwood Road, Bluffdale, Utah
May 9, 2022 2:00 PM

Memorial Gathering

3688 West 12600 South, Riverton, Utah
May 9, 2022 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Drew Thanh Measels was born June 2, 1969, in Fort Benning, Georgia. Following in his father’s footsteps, in 1989, he enlisted in the military out of college. He was stationed at Dugway Proving Grounds where he met his future wife, Kristi. A true love match, they were married over 30 years, each other’s biggest supporters (never more exemplified than in the past few months when Kristi rarely left his side), and the parents of two very loved children, Haley and Max, who were the lights of Drew’s life.

Drew and Kristi explored the world early in their marriage through Drew’s various PCS orders, including a memorable stint in Vicenza, Italy while Drew was serving with the elite, eagle-eyed ``Recon Platoon,'' 3rd Airborne Battalion, 325th Infantry Regiment. Drew took great pride in being a special forces Ranger (“Hooah!”), a sniper, and in jumping out of airplanes like it was second nature. Among his many accolades as an infantryman, Drew earned the NATO medal, Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Master Parachutist Badge, and overseas jump wings.

Drew joined the Salt Lake City police force as a Gang/SWAT detective in 1999. Over the next 25 years, some of the positions he held were narcotics detective, detective sergeant background investigations, patrol sergeant, and audit sergeant. He became a Lieutenant Watch Commander in August of 2021 upon returning from another tour in the Middle East with the National Guard. Yes, Drew was also a decade plus veteran of the National Guard.

Drew loved balancing his police work with his military life, acquiring dozens upon dozens of beloved “brothers” along the way. His quick wit, loyalty, authenticity, thoughtfulness, and charm attracted others to him in a way that created lifelong friendships. His ability to tell compelling stories and make you part of them will be remembered by all.

Drew was a fighter. He was diagnosed with an “incurable” form of cancer earlier this year, only to be given a cancer-free diagnosis weeks ago. Unfortunately, an incredibly aggressive form of interstitial lung disease attacked while Drew was fighting cancer. He passed away on Monday, May 2. He did not want to be remembered with sadness; in fact, he wanted Kristi to throw anyone out who came in tears. Please think of him with a smile, and have a beer, a whiskey, or a cigar in his honor.

Drew is survived by his wife and daughter; his mother, Kim Lam Phan Measels; father- and mother-in-law George and Karen Bruce; brothers-in-law Steve (Laura) and Scott (Joy) Bruce; sister-in-law Heidi Bruce; and nieces and nephews Elizabeth (Fleming), Emily, Heidi, Molly, Isaac, and Hanna (Bruce). He is also survived by countless chosen family members: his friends and brothers whom he loved fondly.

He was preceded in death by his father, David; brothers, David and Robert; and son, Max. One of Drew’s recurring dreams was that he was playing catch with Max while their dog, Roxy, ran between them. We hope this reunion is as happy as it made him in life. Drew will be dearly missed.

Family and friends will gather on Monday, May 9 between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., with brief remarks at 12:30 p.m., at Larkin Mortuary – Riverton, 3688 West and 12600 South. Graveside Services will continue at 2 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Cemetery at 17111 South Camp Williams Road in Bluffdale, Utah.

In lieu of flowers, Drew requested that donations be made to the Huntsman Cancer Institute, or USSOCOM Warrior Care Program.



Guestbook/Condolences

Kristi, Haley and entire Bruce Family -

Drew had a kind and gentle manner and we always felt he genuinely cared for others with that smile of his. Our love and support go out to you all.

Love - John, Becky, Nico and Anthony Miller


- Rebecca Miller

We are heartbroken to hear this news! We are praying for your whole family through out this time and May God give you comfort and peace for your whole family! We love you!


- Debbie & Bob McNiel

Sorry for your loss


- Mike Polvere

So sorry to hear this. Drew was always a great person to be around


- Kevin McCollin

I'm in shock. Drew was a good Soldier and True Ranger.
Rick.


- Rick Hardy.

Kristi, We pray that your treasured memories of Drew will comfort you and your family at this painful time. We are holding you close in our prayers and extend our deepest sympathies during your time of sorrow. Love, Ron and Sandy Barbero


- Ron and Sandy Barbero

Kristi, We pray that your treasured memories of Drew will comfort you and your family at this painful time. We are holding you close in our prayers and extend our deepest sympathies during your time of sorrow. Love, Ron and Sandy Barbero


- Ron and Sandy Barbero

Drew was an amazing man! I always loved our long talks about life and work. Family can rest assured that we have their back forever! Thanks for the amazing friendship Drew!


- Justin Hudson

I will always remember sitting and talking with Drew and you in the lobby. His little smirk smile was an invitation to smile along with him. Gods speed Drew. Love you Kristi!


- Paul Keene

We are thinking and praying for you to be the strong warrior Drew would want you to be. He was such an amazing person and we are better for having the opportunity to call him friend.


- The Windsor Family

Measles and Bruce Families I am so very sorry for you loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.


- Steven Brown

RLTW! Love you brother!


- Ryan Jonkman

Kristi- Prayers of peace to you and your family. He was quite a guy! I'm so sorry for your loss. Sending my love to you.


- Becky Witkowski

Kristi,

I'm at a loss for words, Drew was a great mentor and friend, I was honored to serve with him. I enjoyed every minute off the time we spent together in training and out on the range. I loved listening to all his stories, they are treasured memories.

I know he is in God's care now with many who loved him, and my prayers are with you and your family.


- John Gillespie

Kristi and Haley,

May Drew's love and light surround you both and you find comfort in it. He was such a kind and caring man to me and my family. No words can describe the immense gratitude I feel for having known Drew. He was not only the best leader I ever had but an amazing friend/brother too. He will be missed beyond measure. I'm so very sorry for your loss of him. You both will be in my prayers.


- Haley and Ryan TAKOCH

Drew my brother you will be deeply missed by so many, especially at the PD. I’m grateful for your sincere friendship over the years and your example. I always loved talking, laughing and sharing stories with you. Memories of you will always make me smile. Kristy and the family, I’m so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time.


- Jason Simpson

Kristi and family,
I am so sorry to hear about Drew's passing. Many thoughts and prayers.
Mandy


- Mandy Grzeskowiak

Kristi and Family, Our heartfelt condolences on the loss of Drew. May memories of him comfort you in the days ahead.


- Scotty and Cindi Hawkins

Never met a more natural leader! I trust you with my life, brother!!!
I will miss you dearly my friend!

1SG/MSG Haskell


- G. Scott Haskell

Rest well Brother, we have the watch from here. Thank you for your service at home and abroad. Thoughts and prayers to your family from mine.


- Jim Rodrigues

Kristi and Haley,,
We are so heartbroken… Your family is family to us. We love you guys so much and will miss Drew with our whole hearts. It is so hard to process all of this but it is comforting to know he is there with Max. Although we are feeling so much sorrow and sadness, know that we will be there always for you two if you need any support.
Drew was an amazing man and one of my heroes. The things he would do for others and how he would make others feel so important was one of his amazing Attributes . The fact that while he was in the hospital fighting to get better, he took the time to learn even the janitors name and learn a little bit about them.. Enough to make the janitors check in on him every day because Drew made him feel important. That’s the kind of guy Drew was.
Drew was such an incredible person and he will never be forgotten.
Kristi and Haley, We love you both so much.Thank you so much for being part of our Utah family.


- Shana Absey

You taught me what it means to be a leader and hopefully I will become a leader like you were one day. I am grateful for what you taught me and that I was able to work for you. I will never forget when the new recruits were doing ride alongs and you asked them if they said goodbye to their families. Lol! Rest In Peace.


- ZJ

Very sad to hear of your passing. I will look back fondly on being deployed together. Going to have a cigar and a cold one in front of a campfire in your honor, just like we did downrange. Thank you for everything and you are my brother always!


- CPT Morgan Kim, USA

Kristi, Haley & Family,
Our love pours out to you during this very difficult time. Lean on each other and accept the help of your loved ones. Keep all of the good memories in the front of your mind and let the rest go. Drew is in no more pain and lives with the Lord now. We are here for you, as always.


- Rebecca Vondras Fleming

LeeRoy and I are thinking of you at this difficult time. You and your family are in our prayers


- Robin Nielson

Drew, I think back to the two most recent occasions that we met. One, was on the eastside with mental health issues involved and you, "how does it feel to be treated like you know nothing about this life (job),... good to see you though." It was great catching up with you then, and then again with Kristi as you both came out of the PD. You'd been to the Art Fair and didn't hesitate to stop and chat, thanks for that too.

Kristi thanks for taking the time then and for such a terrible loss to you and your family, and to all of us that knew him on the job. There was never any doubt that he'd have your back if trouble came calling, making him exceptional.


- Steve Cutler

My heart and prayers go with you in the sorrowful time. Love always.


- Lisa Moeller

A soldier and his shield

I knew a soldier who loved his country. Who served for honor, regardless of money.

A master tactician, all would say. Battle tested and trained, to lead men into the fray.

The soldier found love and began a family. Through all the joy, they endured tragedy.

The soldier then carried a shield on his left. He served the community till his last breath.

He was an officer, a detective, a sergeant, a lieutenant. A decorated hero with medals and pendants.

This soldier we love, and the shield that he carried; will live on in our hearts long after he’s buried.

For this soldier and shield is Drew Measels, we thank you brother, you served us well.


- Sioeli Pangia Folau

Kristi, Haley, & family-
May your most cherished, happy memories of Drew carry you through your grief and difficult times. Drew was a great guy, and we feel so lucky to have met him and had gotten to know Max. 💙
Our sincerest condolences,
the Rodrigues Family


- James & Marie Rodrigues

Kristi - Please accept my deepest condolences for your loss. May you take comfort with the friends and family that surround you.


- Sha Angel

Kristi,
I am so sorry for your loss. Drew will be sorely missed. He was someone I really looked up to growing up. He had a way of carrying himself that I inspired to be. I was shocked hearing about his passing. If there is anything I can do for you, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Drew was a good friend, and it was a privilege to have known him.
Tim Brigham


- Tim Brigham