Mildred L. Crum

Born to Corrine and Orville Parkin during the Great Depression.

Her father died in a tragic railroad accident when she was an infant, and she spent the next seven years being raised by her grandmother and aunt while her mother worked nearby. Around 1940, her mother married William Collings and she moved to Crete where she graduated from Crete Monee High School in 1949, and William Woods College in 1951.

She worked for two years before friends introduced her to the love of her life, Everett Crum. They married in 1952, and shortly thereafter moved to Benton Harbor to raise two sons and a daughter.

After her children were in school, Mildred worked 25 years for Benton Harbor Area Schools; eight years at Stern Brunson Elementary and 17 years at the administration office, before retiring.

She was a very active member of the First Christian Church, Disciples of Christ, (Riverview Park Christian Church).

Her interests were family, church, baking, sewing, knitting, reading, camping, tennis, walking, and she was in her glory picking all kinds of fruit. She was known for her delicious homemade baked goods. She and Everett were long-time campers and she loved lakeside walks and collecting interesting rocks.

She was preceded in death by her mother and father; brother, Bill Collings, and her beloved husband, Everett.

Survived by sons: Jim (Ruth) Crum of Niles and David of Benton Harbor; daughter, Jan (Rick) Martin of Westmont Ill.; five grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law, Sharon Collings.

She was a very special person – selfless, kind-hearted, service focused and a wonderful wife, mom and grandmother. If she saw a need, she would offer to help.

Graveside will be at noon on Friday, July 7, at Riverview Cemetery 2925 Niles Road, St. Joseph, with a celebration of life to follow at Lions Shelter in Riverview Park adjacent to the cemetery. Friends and loved ones are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, consider a contribution to Ronald McDonald House or the charity of your choice.