There are some stories that I never thought I’d have to write. This is one of them.
Drue Wolfe, who joined Ankeny Fanatic as a photographer shortly after we launched our website in 2018, passed away earlier this week. He will be greatly missed.
Drue touched the lives of countless athletes over the years with his incredible photos. The images that he created from behind the lens will leave a lasting legacy.
Drue had an uncanny ability to be in the right place at the right time, shooting from just the right angle, to capture the biggest moments of the teams we covered. I never had to worry about whether or not Drue would have a photo of the game-winning shot or touchdown. If he was there on the sideline, I knew he would have it.
One of the highlights of Drue’s career came in 2020, when he had the opportunity to document the Ankeny football team’s dramatic run to the Class 4A state title. Here is his photo of Arland Bruce celebrating his game-winning interception to seal the Hawks’ 31-24 double-overtime victory against Dowling Catholic in the semifinals, ending the Maroons’ seven-year reign as champions.
Drue would usually send me his photos late at night, and he would often include a photo of me interviewing a coach or athlete after the game. I will always treasure these photos. This one below is the last one he sent me.
Because Drue was so reliable, I was justifiably concerned when he did not show up for the games he was scheduled to shoot on Monday night. My worst fears were then realized on Tuesday, when I got the news of his sudden passing. It is a devastating blow.
Drue was a pillar of the community. The outpouring of support over the last 24 hours shows the impact that he had on the athletes and their families in Ankeny.
Drue was an amazing photographer, but he also had a knack for connecting with people on a personal level–whether it was a fellow photographer or one of the coaches or athletes we covered. He became your friend.
Some of the tributes to Drue on social media were from people that I didn’t even know, but that was hardly surprising. I will post some of those tributes below.
Drue and I shared many long road trips together to cover various games over the last several years. As much as I will miss his photos and his contributions to the community, I will miss our conversations and his friendship even more.
RIP Drue.