Stuart L. Blum

Stuart Blum, age 75, passed away at home on September 10, after a brief, sudden illness. He was

surrounded by those he held most dear; his loving wife Janet (Hogan) with whom he just celebrated 50

years of marriage; his devoted and loving sons; Eric and his companion Shannon Runka; Scott and his

new bride Diamond Nesbit; and his trusted friends, Frank and Anna. Stu was also brother-in-law, fond

uncle and friend of many.

Stu grew up in East Rogers Park, enjoying summers at the beach. He graduated from Sullivan High

School, University of Illinois, Chicago (Circle Campus) earning a BS in Marketing and Loyola University,

Chicago earning an MBA in Finance. After a successful 35 year career with Chase Bank, he retired.

Most of his adult life, Stu dealt with pain and stiffness resulting from Ankylosing Spondylitis. To most, it

is an unfamiliar and misunderstood inflammatory arthritic condition. However, he didn't let that stop

him from doing the things he loved. In retirement, Stu developed a passion for walking miles every day,

rain or shine. Along the path he'd meet and stop to talk with others and pet their dogs.

Stu was a wise and fun-loving man, who enjoyed sharing his quick wit. He read every day, often a book a

week. To avoid re-reading books, he kept a spreadsheet listing hundreds of books he'd read on a variety

of topics such as WWII and the Holocaust, "we shall never forget," along with his love for many authors

of police procedurals, political intrigue and espionage.

He is preceded in death by his adoring parents, Rose Aven Blum and Manuel (Manny) Blum. Stu lost his

father when Stu was just 11 years old.

Memorial donations are appreciated by the family with the hope of advancing the diagnosis and cure:

Spondylitis Association of America - spondylitis.org

The Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation - cholangiocarcinoma.org