Drew Byron Svendsen

Drew grew up the first two years of his life in Decatur, Nebraska. He then moved to Blair where his parents’ attended college and eventually onto Lincoln where he attended kindergarten and 1st grade at Pershing Elementary School. His parents made a move to Lyons, Nebraska where he attended 2nd and 3rd grade. But in 1999 moved to Waverly and placed roots where he started 4th grade and graduated from Waverly High School in 2008. Drew attended Southeast Community College in Construction Management at Milford. From there he helped his Grandpa Rich on the family farm and then worked in construction with his Dad and Uncle pouring and stamping concrete until he found the same passion as his Papa Jack and became a third-generation bartender slinging drinks behind the bar and enjoying the nightlife in downtown Lincoln. He worked at Bodega’s Alley for 8 years where he was known and loved by many. He poured everything he had into that establishment and was defeated when it closed. At the time of his passing, he was working at The Fat Toad.

Drew was very intelligent and had a thirst for knowledge and could carry a conversation with anyone anywhere about anything. He was a great listener and even better storyteller. He grew up with a deep love for all sports, playing football, basketball, baseball and track. He also liked to golf. He had great passion for his favorite sports teams, the Huskers, the Cowboys, the Cubs, the Tarheels and the 76ers. At a younger age Drew loved to hunt and fish with friends. He also loved to travel when he could. The Cowboys/Packers game and visiting the mountains were at the top of his favorites. He loved the fall and winter and always wanted to live in a cabin with his dog there. Drew’s favorite holiday was the 4th of July, and he looked forward to orchestrating the annual family firework display in Lyons each year. Drew was a loyal big brother always supportive and always wanted them each to be happy. He loved to read and write and even had a book of song lyrics and short stories he was working on. His love for music came at an early age, teaching himself to play the guitar at age 14. He could often be found at local live music events and festivals. Whether at open mics, karaoke nights, or simply enjoying his favorite jam bands. Drew was a free spirit known for his infectious laugh, quick wit, flowing locks, and heartfelt hugs which he shared generously with all who knew him.

He is survived by his parents, Amy Dunning (Brian Cheney) and Heath (Jen) Svendsen; his brothers, Hunter Svendsen and Bryer Cheney; his sisters, Carlea Svendsen, Harper Svendsen and Everlee Cheney; grandparents Jack and Linda Dunning, Cynthia Svendsen, Veva Cheney and Laura Dallegge; Great Grandma Lorelei Wickstrom (Moseman); Uncle Hayden Svendsen, Aunt Jenny (Travis) Schmid, Aunt Heidi Svendsen and his cherished dog and loyal companion Link; countless cousins, great Aunt and Uncles and many many friends who will miss him dearly.

Drew was preceded in death by his grandfather, Rich Svendsen, Curt Cheney and Terry Dallegge; his great grandparents Charlie and Georgia Redding, Byron Dunning, Bert and Iva Kellogg, Kermit Moseman, Clarence and Edythe Svendsen

A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held from 5 p.m.-7 p.m. on Wednesday, March 26, 2025 at Roper and Sons Waverly Chapel.

A Memorial Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 27, 2025 at Bethlehem Covenant Church – Waverly (18841 N 98th St, Waverly, NE 68462). A luncheon will be held following the service at the Community Center – Waverly (Jaycee Park, 11120 N 141st St, Waverly, NE 68462).

Memorials to the family for future designation.