Ted Drewes is currently trending due to the recent passing of Ted Drewes Jr., a beloved figure in St. Louis known for his family's frozen custard business, which has been an iconic part of the city's culture for generations. From long-time locals to tourists, the Ted Drewes name is synonymous with summer treats and the famous "concrete," a delightfully thick shake that can be flipped upside-down without spilling. The passing of Ted Drewes Jr. has brought an outpouring of tributes and fond memories, both from everyday customers and prominent personalities alike.
Why is 'Ted Drewes' Trending?
Ted Drewes is trending as people across the country and especially in St. Louis mourn the death of Ted Drewes Jr., who passed away at the age of 96. His death has sparked widespread attention due to the massive impact his frozen custard business had on the local community and beyond. According to Fox 2 St. Louis, a public memorial was held to honor his life, and St. Louis residents came out in droves to pay their respects to the man who was as much a part of the city as the Arch itself.
The immense traffic surrounding this topic is driven largely by the emotional connection that people have with the Ted Drewes frozen custard stands, which have been a staple in St. Louis for decades. Beyond just serving frozen custard, Ted Drewes Jr. was a community figure whose business became a symbol of tradition, summer evenings, and family outings.
Who Was Ted Drewes Jr.?
Ted Drewes Jr. was the son of Ted Drewes Sr., who founded the original Ted Drewes Frozen Custard stand in 1929. Born in 1928, Ted Drewes Jr. grew up helping his father with the family business and eventually took over its day-to-day operations. Over the decades, Ted Drewes became renowned for its simple but delicious frozen custard, with the "concrete" being the most famous item on the menu. The concrete is so thick that it can be served upside down without falling out of the cup, making it a unique and memorable experience for customers.
Ted Drewes Jr. wasn't just known for his custard, however. He was also a well-respected businessman who kept the family-run business thriving through the decades, even as other frozen treat shops came and went. His commitment to quality and his strong connection to the St. Louis community made him a beloved figure.
A Public Memorial for Ted Drewes Jr.
On the heels of Ted Drewes Jr.'s passing, a public memorial was organized in St. Louis to honor his life and legacy. According to Fox 2 St. Louis, the memorial drew a large crowd of people who wanted to pay their respects. Many attendees spoke of how Ted Drewes Jr. had impacted their lives, not just with his frozen custard, but with his kindness and dedication to the community. The atmosphere was one of both mourning and celebration, as people shared fond memories of visiting the custard stand with their families, especially during the hot summer months.
A Tribute from Chefs and Politicians
Ted Drewes Jr.'s influence wasn't limited to St. Louis locals; he was also admired by celebrity chefs and politicians. As reported in The New York Times, prominent figures from around the country paid tribute to the man behind the famous concrete. Many noted that Ted Drewes Jr. had managed to turn a small family business into a regional icon, beloved by generations of customers. His dedication to maintaining the same high standards of quality for decades earned him the respect of culinary professionals and food enthusiasts alike.
Missouri politicians also paid their respects, acknowledging Ted Drewes' contributions not only to the local economy but also to the state's cultural heritage. The custard stand became a must-visit destination for visitors from out of town, making it a key part of the St. Louis tourism experience.
A Lasting Legacy
Ted Drewes Jr.’s name will live on, not just through his family’s business but through the thousands of people who remember their visits to the frozen custard stand as an essential part of their St. Louis experience. Ted Drewes Frozen Custard has become a symbol of the city’s warmth and hospitality, and that legacy is directly tied to Ted Drewes Jr.’s dedication to quality and community.
His passing marks the end of an era, but the business he helped build continues to thrive, still serving the beloved concretes and other frozen treats that have become synonymous with St. Louis summers. As noted in his obituary, Ted Drewes Jr. leaves behind not just a business, but a legacy of community, tradition, and, of course, delicious frozen custard.
Conclusion
Ted Drewes Jr.'s passing has understandably caused a wave of reflection and tributes, as people remember the man who helped make frozen custard a quintessential part of St. Louis culture. His dedication to his family business turned Ted Drewes Frozen Custard into a beloved local institution, and his legacy will be cherished for years to come. Whether through the public memorial, heartfelt tributes from chefs and politicians, or simply the ongoing enjoyment of a concrete on a hot summer day, Ted Drewes Jr.'s influence will never be forgotten.