Local philanthropist R. Chad Dreier passes away

The Santa Barbara Zoo is sending its condolences to the Dreier family Wednesday, as Chad Dreier longtime zoo supporter and local philanthropist has passed away.

The zoo released a statement saying in part, “Chad was a great man, one-of-a-kind. He was zoo family in such a significant way. We are deeply saddened by this loss and we hope that you will join us in keeping his family in your thoughts in the days ahead. “

In 2016, a Masai baby giraffe who garnered national attention was named Chad in honor of the financial support the Dreier’s had given to the zoo throughout the years for their giraffe program.

According to the Loyola Marymount University website, Dreier entered the Air Force after graduating college and eventually would become the president, chairman, and CEO of Ryland Group, one of the nation’s largest home builders.

Dreier was diagnosed with cancer in February of last year, he passed away surrounded by family Saturday, December 28th, 2018.

The Dreier family is grateful for prayers and love being sent their way, and well wishes can be sent to chaddreierfamily@gmail.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Cancer Foundation of Santa Barbara, Wellness and Support Programs: https://cfsb.org/giving-to-cfsb/give-now/.

Click here to learn more about Dreier’s contributions and legacy: https://alumni.lmu.edu/connect/featuredalumni/alumnifeatures/rchaddreier/