Longtime Concordia Resident Fred Allen Droege Dies at 87

Droege was an active member of the community, serving in the Navy, working at AT&T, and volunteering with local organizations.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Fred Allen Droege, a longtime resident of Concordia, Missouri, passed away on February 5, 2026, at the age of 87. Droege had a distinguished career, serving in the U.S. Navy as a communications specialist and working for 35 years at AT&T before retiring. He was an active member of the Concordia community, belonging to the American Legion Post 258, Concordia Lions Club, and serving on the Board of Directors at the Good Shepherd Home. Droege also volunteered with Habitat for Humanity and the Sweet Springs Food Bank, and enjoyed having a winery and making wine.

Why it matters

Droege's passing marks the end of an era for Concordia, as he was a pillar of the community who dedicated much of his life to serving others through his military service, professional career, and volunteer work. His involvement in local organizations and commitment to giving back made him a beloved figure in the town.

The details

Droege was born on July 5, 1938, in Concordia, Missouri, to Fred H. Droege and Olga (Duensing) Droege. He married Virginia Mae Kindle on February 20, 1960, at Bethel United Church of Christ, where he was an authorized lay minister and sang in the choir. After his Navy service, Droege worked as a communications analyst at AT&T for 35 years before retiring. In addition to his community involvement, Droege enjoyed having a winery, making wine, and selling his grapes to Baltimore Bend Winery. He was also an avid reader, hunter, and fisherman who loved working in his yard.

  • Fred Allen Droege passed away on February 5, 2026.
  • Memorial services will be held on February 14, 2026 at 11 a.m.

The players

Fred Allen Droege

An 87-year-old longtime resident of Concordia, Missouri who served in the U.S. Navy, worked at AT&T for 35 years, and was an active member of the Concordia community, belonging to various organizations and volunteering with local charities.

Virginia Mae Kindle

Droege's wife of 66 years, who survives him.

Bethel United Church of Christ

The church where Droege was an authorized lay minister, sang in the choir, and where he married his wife Virginia.

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What’s next

Droege will be laid to rest following memorial services at Bethel United Church of Christ on February 14, 2026.

The takeaway

Droege's life exemplified the values of service, community, and dedication that have long defined Concordia. His passing is a significant loss for the town, but his legacy of volunteerism and civic engagement will continue to inspire others in the community.