Clarence Drietz, Longtime Minnesotan and Veteran, Passes Away at 92

Drietz served in the Army and Navy, worked for the Post Office, and was a devout Catholic known for his humility and generosity.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Clarence Drietz, a 92-year-old lifelong Minnesotan and military veteran, passed away on March 3, 2026, under hospice care at his daughter's home in Cold Spring, Minnesota. Drietz served in the Army and Navy, including multiple tours in Vietnam, before retiring and working for the Post Office in Washington. He was remembered as a devout Catholic with a strong faith, sincere humility, and generosity towards others.

Why it matters

Drietz's life story reflects the experiences of many Midwestern veterans who served their country during the Vietnam War era, balancing military service with family life and careers. His deep Catholic faith and commitment to community values also highlight the importance of religious and civic engagement in rural Minnesota.

The details

Drietz was born in 1933 and grew up on a farm near Ivanhoe, Minnesota. He enlisted in the Army in 1953 and later the Navy in 1966, serving until his retirement in 1986. During his military career, he was stationed in California, Washington, Texas, Guam, Japan, and Vietnam. After retiring, he worked for the Post Office in the Seattle area before moving back to Minnesota, where he wintered in Texas. Drietz was married to his wife Margaret for 64 years until her passing in 2022.

  • Clarence Drietz was born on May 11, 1933.
  • He enlisted in the Army in 1953 and served for three years, then in the Army Reserves until 1961.
  • He enlisted in the Navy in June 1966 and served until his retirement in April 1986.
  • Drietz married Margaret Flemming on September 25, 1957.
  • Drietz passed away on March 3, 2026 under hospice care.

The players

Clarence Drietz

A 92-year-old lifelong Minnesotan and military veteran who served in the Army and Navy, including multiple tours in Vietnam, before retiring and working for the Post Office in Washington.

Margaret Flemming

Drietz's wife of 64 years, who passed away in 2022.

Debbie Henrickson

Drietz's daughter, with whom he spent his final days under hospice care in Cold Spring, Minnesota.

Terri Mohrweis

Drietz's other daughter, who resides in Mesa, Arizona.

U.S. American Legion Post 199 of Minneota

The organization providing military honors at Drietz's funeral.

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What’s next

A private family interment will take place at a later date at St. Edward Catholic Cemetery in Minneota.

The takeaway

Clarence Drietz's life exemplified the values of service, faith, and community that have long defined the Midwest, making him a beloved figure in his hometown and beyond.