Jonathan P. Krum

1949 - 2022

Jonathan P. Krum was born on December 18, 1949 to Jonathan and Barbara Krum (Goeppel) in Zion Hill, PA. His descriptions of his childhood were filled with stories from his grandfather's farm where he learned lots of life lessons and the value of hard work.

He graduated from Palisades High School in 1967, where he was known for his athletic abilities in baseball and basketball. Jon went to Gettysburg College and was a member of the ROTC. After college, he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Air Force and served his country in the Vietnam War at the Udorn Air Force base in Thailand.

He started his professional career at Bethlehem Steel in the Purchasing Department. Jon was an extremely hard worker and a deep thinker. 'Be prepared' was one of his mottos and committing to get the job done without excuses was how he approached his career.

Jon met his future wife Connie for the first time at a bar called Your Mother's Bloomers. They had their first date on New Year's Day 1977 and Connie recalls that she spilled a glass of wine, so she thought it would be their last date. In fact, they married in October of the same year.

Jon was a dedicated husband and father. With Connie, he raised their children Clayton and Katie along with their Labrador Retrievers Sundance and Churchill on Summit Drive in Hellertown, PA. His family meant more to him than anything else in the world. He was unendingly proud of Clayton and Katie and focused his love and energy on doing everything he could to support them so, as he explained, "they would have the opportunity to reach their highest potential". He wrote: "Our family evokes the greatest sense of pride in my life."

Although much too short, Jon found joy in retirement with Connie in Knoxville, TN after finishing his career at Alstom. He spent time pursuing lifelong hobbies and interests including playing golf and riding his motorcycle. He also loved going out to breakfast or dinner with Connie. He read books, did some writing and checked in with his children and grandchildren often.

Jon is described by family and close friends as a genuine and intelligent person. He was an intense listener and giver of thoughtful advice. We will miss the way he observed life and captivated us with his storytelling – often making us erupt in laughter or consider a different perspective.

He passed away on January 20, at the age of 72. He is survived by his devoted wife of 44 years, Constance Krum; son Clayton Krum (Sarah Peery); daughter Katie Krum (Harry Paul Ross, Jr.); his loving grandchildren Clara Krum, Gracie Krum, Cole Krum and Crosby Krum Ross; and his sister Nanette Krueger (Michael).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to the CitySwing Foundation in Washington DC. They provide access to golf, so golf can provide access to life: https://www.cityswingfoundation.org/

A service will be held on April 23, 2022 at the Central Moravian Church Chapel in Bethlehem, PA. Email Connie at ckrumster@gmail.com to be notified of the arrangements.