Chad J. Collum

In the peaceful early morning hours of August, 1st, 2016, with his wife and son sleeping at his side, Chad Joseph Collum, at the age of 42, decided it was time to be free from the chains of ALS and soar into the heavens above. His heroic battle with ALS lasted two and a half years. Chad entered into this world on September 7, 1973 . He was the eldest child of Harry Joseph “Bud” Collum, Jr. and Deborah L. (Bezeau) Collum. He was born, grew up, and was a lifelong resident of Monroe. Chad graduated from Monroe High School in 1991. Chad's infectious laugh and comedic wit made it easy for him to make friends throughout his entire life. His first friends were the siblings he leaves behind; Angela Collum of Monroe, Travis (Krystie) Collum of Sylvania, Ohio, and Tanness (Justin) Headrick of Monroe. Chad was passionate about many things in his life; Detroit Tigers baseball, Elvis Presley, The Beatles, riding his Harley Davidson, singing and dancing, making others laugh, and living life to the fullest. Chad brought joy to everyone lucky enough to know him. In August 2012, Chad welcomed his son Connor Joseph Collum into the world. Family quickly became Chad’s new passion. He enjoyed building a life for his family. A life that included marriage to his best friend and soul mate, Rebecca (Loope) on July 15, 2015. He was an amazing father, a loving spouse, and a caring stepdad to Bryce Loope, 15 of Monroe. Together their little family would create memories of family parties, vacations, bon fires in the backyard, and fireworks on Luna Pier Beach over the 4th of July. In addition to his family listed above, Chad also leaves behind a step mother: Bonnie Collum of Monroe, a stepfather: Richard Lentz of Monroe, father and mother-in-law: Paul and Patricia Lemanowicz of Carleton, and a brother-in-law and friend: Justin Cole of Monroe. Chad is now reunited with loved ones who preceded him in death; Grandparents: Eugene and Darlene Bezeau, and Harry and Elma Collum, Sr. Chad's final wishes include inviting those whose life he touched to join in remembering him during visitation on Wednesday, August 3, from 2-8pm in the Bacarella Funeral Home, 1201 S. Telegraph Rd in Monroe, where funeral services will be on Thursday, August 4, 2016 at 11:00am. The Rev. Roy Southerland, Pastor of Monroe Missionary Baptist Church will officiate. Cremation will follow and he will be interred at St. Joseph Cemetery in Monroe at a later date. Memorial contributions are suggested to ALS of Michigan or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Chad J. Collum

September 7, 1973 - August 1, 2016