William served in the US Army stationed in Europe during World War II. He was employed in the printing profession for over 45 years earning the position of Pressroom Supervisor at the Batavia Daily News as well as an Associate’s Degree in Printing from RIT. On June 19, 1948 he married Meryl (Kriger) Schum, with whom he shared over 70 magical years. Together they raised one daughter, Suzanne and two sons, Richard and Gary.
William was passionate about helping his children and grandchildren, always asserting his positive attitude, wildly enthusiastic sense of humor and compassion. He loved to travel cross-country with his family and later, traveling to spend time with grandchildren and support their endeavors. He took many trips with family and grandchildren to Walt Disney World always making sure to visit the Enchanted Tiki Room and indulging in Mickey Ice Cream Bars. He was an avid bowler and a fan of the Buffalo Bills, attending the last two Super Bowls the Bills played in and making an annual trek to Buffalo to attend a game. He proudly wore his Buffalo Bills hat wherever he went. After moving from Batavia to North Carolina, he and Meryl enjoyed traveling back to Batavia and to Cary, IL to visit children, grandchildren and friends.
He was fortunate to see his grandson Christopher play many NCAA and more recently pro golfing events. He loved to watch Kimberly perform on stage and became a “super fan” for his grandson Connor during his high school football years. He enjoyed watching his two granddaughters Elizabeth and Courtney ride horses and enjoyed telling war tales to his grandsons Grant and Brent. There was never a visit to any of his children’s homes when he wouldn’t fix something – always willing to help – he loved home improvement and did his own home repairs and maintenance right up to his 91st birthday. William also loved his miniature long-haired dachshund Minnie which was only exceeded by his love for ice cream. Rarely was there a dinner out that wasn’t followed by a trip to the ice cream parlor! Perhaps his greatest love was his wife of 70 years, Meryl. Always looking out for her best interests right up to his last days. We will always remember the wedding dances where they were the last couple standing – they were the exemplary soulmates.
William was preceded in death by his father Augustus; mother Alice; brothers Donald and Eugene.
He is survived by his wife of 70 years; Meryl; brother Courtney of Kettering, OH; daughter Suzanne (Steve) Green, grandchildren Christopher (Rachel) Green, Kimberly Green (Brian Janty), Connor Green, great granddaughter Emma Green; son Richard Schum & granddaughter Elizabeth Schum of Winston-Salem, NC; son Gary Schum & grandchildren Grant, Brent & Courtney Schum of Alexander, NY, along with 3 nephews.
There will be no prior calling hours. An 11:00AM Funeral Service will be held on Monday November 5, 2018 at the First United Methodist Church, 8221 Lewiston Rd, Batavia, NY 14020 followed by lunch at the church.
Flowers or donations may be sent to the First United Methodist Church at the address listed above. For more information please call (585) 343-8260 or to leave a message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home & Cremation Company, Inc. 329-333 West Main St. Batavia, New York 14020.
