DAUM, Gerald (Jerry) Henry

Gerald "Jerry" Henry Daum left us on January 11, 2012 to begin a new life with his creator. He was born on June 30, 1924 to Henry and Minnie (Stelling) Daum. Jerry's early life was spent in his home town of Peotone, IL. He fondly remembered his youthful days, his friends, and the fun they created for themselves during the days of the Depression when a dollar was so hard to come by. Jerry graduated from Peotone Community High School in May, 1942. A month later on June 30, his 18th birthday, he qualified for the draft. World War II was in full swing. In 1943 he chose to enlist in the Navy and graduated from the Navy's V-12 officer's training program. Upon graduating from midshipman's school he was commissioned Ensign-USNR and sent to the Pacific Theater. During this time he also graduated from Northwestern University School of Commerce. He was released from active duty in May of 1946 after attaining the rank of Lieutenant JG. He returned to Peotone to start the process of learning how to become a craftsman in his father's construction business. In 1949 he became a partner. Most importantly, May of 1949 was the most important date of his young life. He married Barbara Hunt, a beautiful young nurse. No man could ever be more blessed. Two children, Geryl Ann and Mark were born into this union. Jerry served his church, Immanuel United Church of Christ in Peotone, in many capacities. He was church council secretary, elder, Superintendent of Sunday School, and youth group teacher and counselor along with his wife, Barbara. Later he taught the senior's Bible class and was chairman of the first endowment committee. He was also a member of the First Christian Church in Yuma, AZ. Outside of his dedication to God's work, he also served his village and service organizations in many ways. He was the first World War II commander of the Peotone American Legion Post 392. He served for two terms as a board member for Peotone Township. He also served the Peotone Village Board as a trustee for 16 years. He was honored to have served 39 years as a member of the board of directors of Peotone Bank and Trust. Some years after retirement, he moved to Yuma, AZ with his wonderful wife to be close to their son, Mark, and their daughter-in-law, Blanca, and their growing family. This was truly a joy for them both! Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Minnie; and a brother, Robert. Jerry is survived by Barbara, his wife of 62 years; a brother, Ralph and sister-in-law, Ruth; his children, Geryl and Mark (Blanca); grandchildren, Isaac, Isaiah, and Jacob; and nieces, Jane Jones, Sally Flynn and Nancy Daum Lundahl. Cremation rites have been accorded. Private services will be held in Yuma. A public memorial service will be held in Peotone at a later date. Memorials to the Immanuel United Church of Christ in Peotone or the First Christian Church in Yuma would be appreciated. Published in The Yuma Sun on January 18, 2012