Drew Flak

As family and friends can surely attest, Drew Flak truly understood the secret to living each day to the fullest. He was a constant source of strength, even in the most difficult of times, and he faced challenges head-on with a spirit of fierce determination. Nothing brought Drew greater joy than surrounding himself with his friends and loved ones. He was a shining example of selflessness and kindness, and his solid work ethic formed the foundation of all that he did. Deeply loved, Drew will be forever held in the hearts of those who knew him best.

The early 2000s were among the most influential years for the United States. With the entrance into the new millennium, technology was booming and pop culture was thriving. Musical groups such as the Backstreet Boys and Destiny’s Child were very popular, launching their members to stardom, and reality TV shows, including Big Brother, were becoming a regular part of American entertainment as well. It was during this exciting time that Robert and Angela (Ryskamp) Flak of Grand Rapids, Michigan, were eagerly awaiting the arrival of their child. On July 30, 2001, they welcomed their son, who they named Drew Michael, into the world.

Growing up, Drew was a typical young boy of his generation in many ways. He was raised in the family home alongside his two siblings, Bobby and Alyssa. Bobby was 11 years older and Drew really looked up to his big brother, but boy did he love his little sister, which led to a strong bond between the two as they grew older. From a young age, Drew was always on the go, whether it was playing with his legos and toys or getting together with friends. Drew liked to take pictures and record videos of his own, exploring his creativity. He was known to go on outdoor adventures with his “survival backpack,” which contained everything he needed. As he got older, he enjoyed doing tricks on his scooter, going to car meets, detailing cars, golfing with his friends and other countless activities.

Throughout his childhood, Drew attended local schools and was involved in some sports and other extracurricular activities. He played baseball through both Western Little League and Pioneer Little League. He participated in Lego League in elementary and middle school. While in middle school he also participated in band (clarinet) and was on the swim team. He graduated from Grandville High School in 2019 where he was on the golf team and continued to play the clarinet. Drew then went on to pursue further education at the University of Northwestern Ohio, earning an associate’s degree in automotive technology. He would work full time at a Byrider car dealership in Ohio while also attending full time evening classes. Drew returned home to Grand Rapids every weekend to visit his girlfriend and family. Following his time at University of Northwestern Ohio, he settled down in Grand Rapids for good, where he began working at Byrider.As a young teenager, Drew began building the foundation of his exemplary work ethic by mowing lawns. His first official job was at a Family Fare grocery store; however, his true passion was detailing cars. Drew worked for Millennium Auto Wash and Detail Center, and he eventually started his own business, Refined Auto Care. He used his own before and after pictures to advertise his skills. Drew loved to detail cars belonging to friends or family members in his free time. He received several certifications after graduating from college and earned the status of ASE Certified Master Technician while working at Byrider in Grand Rapids. At the age of 21, Drew was promoted to Service Manager of Byrider, a position he held with pride. He was later recruited by Serra Honda and became a Service Advisor. He was always well liked and respected by his coworkers.

All who knew Drew can certainly agree that his legacy is one of bravery and strength. At the age of ten, he had open heart surgery. Even while navigating difficult times of health struggles, Drew never once complained. He refused to feel sorry for himself and instead looked for the good in every situation. The Flak family experienced a devastating loss when Bobby passed away unexpectedly in 2021. Drew held the family together, leading them down a path of healing. He grew to be especially close to Alyssa and would often visit her at the University of Michigan. Drew was always there for his loved ones whenever he was needed.

Never one to sit still for long, Drew pursued many hobbies to stay busy in his free time. His passion for cars led him to own a VW Jetta, a VW GTI, and a tricked-out Honda Civic, and multiple motorcycles. Drew was always willing to help out his friends and family with car repairs. Drew enjoyed spending time in the kitchen or behind a grill, and he was an excellent cook. He liked to serve meals to his friends and family. The family cottage at Hardy Dam was the backdrop of many of Drew’s favorite memories. He had several close circles of friends, and he enjoyed organizing get togethers, cook outs, trips, poker nights, Friendsgiving, and "Friendsmas" (Christmas with friends). Drew’s friends and family members were the most important part of his life, and he dedicated himself to making sure his loved ones knew just how much they were treasured.

When reflecting on the life of Drew Flak, it is easy to see both his unwavering strength and his unconditional love for his friends and family. He was responsible and dependable, and he was always willing to go above and beyond to serve others. A devoted son, brother, and grandson, Drew was a friend to many and beloved by all. His primary focus in life was forming deep and personal relationships with those around him, and his big heart allowed him to touch the lives of countless others. Though he will be dearly missed, Drew leaves behind a priceless legacy that his loved ones will be proud to carry on in his footsteps.

Drew Michael Flak, age 22, passed away May 10, 2024 as a result of a motorcycle accident and is now in heaven with Jesus. Drew was born July 30, 2001 in Grand Rapids to Robert and Angela (Ryskamp) Flak. Drew graduated from Grandville High School and the University of Northwestern Ohio. He was hardworking, generous, and known for his unique ability to bring laughter to everyone and be the glue to countless friendships. Drew will forever be loved and the memories of him cherished by his parents; his sister, Alyssa Flak; grandparents, Mary Clark, Terry (Marilyn) Ryskamp, Thomas (Nancy Jones) Flak; great grandmother, Dorothy Ryskamp; aunts and uncles, Phil Ryskamp, Jenny (Kahn) Spencer, Jessica (Stone) Haspel, Sherry Flak, Scott (Betty) Flak, Becky (Jeff) Barton; many cousins and a large group of great friends. He was preceded in death by his brother, Bobby Flak in 2021. A funeral service will be held Saturday, May 18, 2024 at 11 AM at Remembrance Church, 4575 Remembrance Rd NW. Friends may visit with the family on Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at the church. Interment will be in Rosedale Memorial Park. Memorials may be given to The Children’s Heart Foundation. To read more of Drew’s Life Story, leave a memory or sign the guestbook please visit www.heritagelifestory.com.