Glenmore H. Drasher

GLENMORE H. DRASHER, age 95, of Bel Air, MD, died on August 19, 2008 at Overlea Health and Rehabilitation, Baltimore, MD. Born on March 14, 1913 in Hazelton, PA, he was the son of the late Howard E. and Mary Katherine Stout Drasher and husband, for 32 years, of the late Matilda Elizabeth Drasher. A graduate of Hazelton High School, he started his military career in 1930 as an MP, while awaiting an army band assignment. He was discharged from the Army in 1936 and went to work running his own gas station, where by 1940, he sold gas and homemade takeout made by his new wife. After the Pearl Harbor attack, he re-enlisted in 1942, surprising his wife who wondered what those big boots were doing in the closet. He settled in Bel Air when stationed at APG in November of 1957, retiring from the APG Army Band in March of 1965, after 30 years total of military service. He was involved with military bands, playing all the brass instruments except the tuba and was stationed with bands in Virginia, Texas, New York (West Point Army Band), Germany, California, and Korea. Both first and last band assignments were in Maryland: Ft. Howard and Aberdeen Proving Ground. He began cello lessons at age 35, and played in Germany with the 7th Army Symphony. He added piano, guitar, and accordion to his musical practice, where his musical career continued with completing music courses at Peabody School of Music. He participated in musical Elderhostel courses in northeastern states and Canada, teaching music lessons, and tuning pianos in Harford and surrounding counties. He joined the Bel Air Community Band, the Gettysburg Symphony, and the Susquehanna Orchestra, which he continued until his mid 80's.

Mr. Drasher is survived by a daughter, Hannah E. Wheeling of Bel Air, MD; two granddaughters; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents and wife, he was predeceased by one sister and three brothers.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Bel Air Community Band at the William N. McFaul Activities Center, Attn: Sue, 525 W. MacPhail Road, Bel Air, MD 21014.