Published: June 29, 2009 02:37 pm      

Warren M. Shrum

June 27, 2009

Warren M. Shrum of Plainfield died June 27 at the age of 88.

Born March 18, 1921, in Bollinger County, Mo., he was a son of the late Millerson and Emma (Mathews) Shrum.  He grew up on his family’s farm with five older sisters and a younger brother.

After graduating from business college, he worked for Industrial Bank and U.S. Cartridge Co. in St. Louis, Mo. He joined the U.S. Navy Cadet program in 1943 and earned his wings as a Naval Aviator in 1944. Flying the carrier based F6F Hellcat fighter, Lt. Shrum flew combat missions in many of the South Pacific theater engagements, including the greatest battle in naval history, the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in addition to numerous strike escort, combat air patrol, and ground support missions over the South Pacific Islands.

Following the war, Mr. Shrum worked for Stadler Bros. Packing Co. of Columbus as a livestock order buyer in Indianapolis, before starting the Warren Shurm Co. cattle buying firm in 1961.

He was a 32nd degree Mason and a member of the Plainfield Masonic Lodge and Scottish Rite. He was very active in civic and volunteer duties with Plainfield United Methodist Church, Meals on Wheels, Optimist Club, and coaching Little League baseball. He served on the Plainfield Board of Zoning Appeals and Planning Commission, as well as director at Lincoln Federal Savings.

Mr. Shrum enjoyed yard work, furniture refinishing, reading, playing bridge, and grilling.

Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Mary Ann Shrum; children Rebecca Cervenka and husband Cary, Warren Jr. “Bud” Shrum and wife Cindy, and Patricia Soult and husband Michael; four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; and a brother, Grant Shrum.

A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. July 6 at Plainfield United Methodist Church, 600 Simmons St. Inurnment will follow the service at Maple Hill Mausoleum in Plainfield.

Calling at the church is for an hour prior to the service.

Memorials may be made to the church or to the American Cancer Society.

Hampton-Gentry Funeral Home in Plainfield is handling arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to the Shrum family at www.hamptongentry.com.