Merritt Strum: 1924-2010

SooToday.com received the following announcement today from the Arthur Funeral Home & Cremation Centre regarding WWII veteran Merritt Strum.

****************************** STRUM, Merritt Vennel – 1924 ~ 2010 WWII Vet – Passed away on Wednesday, November 24, 2010 surrounded by family.

Our loving Father called him home.

He leaves behind his beloved wife Patricia of 64 years and his six children; Michael (Marie), Hollis Gass (Joe), Elaine Pinnell (Glen), Jane Smith (Lennie), Dawn Hollingshead (Ken) and Bill (Janet), his grandchildren; Jeffrey (Krystee), Michael (Michelle), Kelly, L.G., Shannon, Laura, Jordan, David, Thomas and Janel and his sweet little great granddaughter Meghan.

Son of the late Edward and Martha Strum.

Brother of John, Donald, Charles and predeceased by Ralph, Edith, Bernice, Geraldine, Edward, Frederick, Hazen, Albert and Ernest.

Uncle to many.

Merritt loved his country and served in World War II.

He joined the Soo – Suds Regiment in 1942 and later the Royal Regiment of Canada as a sergeant and medic.

He later returned to Normandy, France for the 60th anniversary reunion at Juno Beach proudly wearing all his medals, including the highest award, the palm leaf.

Merritt was widely known for his community work and was the unofficial historian for Bruce Mines and area.

Friends may call at the Arthur Funeral Home and Cremation Centre on Thursday, November 25, 2010 from 6 – 9 p.m.

Funeral service Friday, November 26, 2010 at 11 a.m. in the chapel.

Bishop Stephen Reber (of North Carolina) officiating.

Interment Sands Cemetery.

Memorial contributions to the charity of choice.

A special thank you to Dr. Fratesi, Elaine and the caring and loving staff at the Sault Area Hospital.

Expressions of sympathy may be offered at www.arthurfuneralhome.com

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