Warren M. Shrum

Warren M. Shrum, 88, Plainfield, passed away June 27, 2009. He was born March 18, 1921 to the late Millerson and Emma (Mathews) Shrum in Bollinger County, MO. 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 US Cartridge Co. in St. Louis. In 1943 he joined the US Navy Cadet program 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. After the War, Mr. Shrum worked for Stadler Bros. Packing Co. of Columbus, IN as a livestock order buyer in Indianapolis, before starting the Warren Shrum Co. cattle buying firm in 1961. Mr. Shrum was a 32nd degree Mason and 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 Commision, as well as director at Lincoln Federal Savings. His hobbies included yard work, furniture refinishing, reading, playing bridge, and he was a master at grilling a very mean steak. Mr. Shrum is survived by his wife of 63 years, Mary Ann; three children, Rebecca (Cary) Cervenka, Warren Jr. "Bud" (Cindy) Shrum and Patricia (Michael) Soult; four grandchildren, three great grandchildren, and one brother, Grant. Mr. Shrum will always be known for his strong work ethic, common sense, integrity, ever present smile, and the interesting accounts he could relate about his life experiences. He was a good friend, a great father/grandfather and devoted husband. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 am Monday, July 6, 2009 at Plainfield United Methodist Church, 600 Simmons St. with calling one hour prior to services. Inurnment will follow the service at Maple Hill Mausoleum in Plainfield. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the church or the American Cancer Society.