Everett L. Crum

This very special man lived for 90 years and we are better people for having known him. Everett “Papa” was born on March 23, 1923, in Literberry, Illinois, and was one of eight children. He passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2014. Everett was a devout Christian man who served his church in many capacities and was honored as Elder Emeritus in 2010. He was a truly honest man who loved his wife and family, and loved to spend time with his grandchildren. He also enjoyed golfing, tennis, camping, volunteering, cards and he loved ice cream. He graduated from the University of Illinois, and was employed as an accountant, working locally at VM Corporation, Burnette Farms and Hassel Farms. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Mildred, and children: Jim (Ruth) of Niles, MI, Dave of Coloma, MI, and Janet (Rick) Martin of Westmont, IL; five grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. He has one surviving brother, Orris of Kansas City, Kansas. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corp. during World War II for 33 months, receiving a Bronze Star, Good Conduct Medal and a Certificate of Merit on Iwo Jima for outstanding performance and devotion to duty. Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2014 from 9:00 until 11:00 A.M. at Riverview Park Christian Church, St. Joseph, followed by a service at 11 A.M., with Rev. David Stout officiating. Private burial will take place at Riverview Cemetery. Memorials may be sent to: Riverview Park Christian Church, 2929 Niles Road, St. Joseph, MI 49085. Those wishing to sign Everett’s Memory Book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.