Harry Collum,

Harry J. Collum, Sr., 84 years, a lifelong resident of Monroe, MI went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, September 22, 2012 in his home, surrounded by his loving family and under the tender care of Mercy Memorial Hospice of Monroe. Born September 12, 1928 in Monroe Harry was the son of the late Matthew and Leona (Thompson) Collum. Harry attended Monroe Public Schools. Harry served his country honorably and proudly as a Staff Sergeant in the US Army Air Corps during WWII. He served from December 6, 1945 until October 21, 1948. On January 5, 1951 Harry married his beloved wife the former Elma Mae Nickles at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Monroe. Sadly she preceded him in death on January 11, 2008 after 57 years of marriage. Harry was employed by Leake Stamping in Monroe, Chrysler Corporation, and Ford Motor Company in Monroe, from which he retired in 1977. Harry was a member of VFW Post 1138 in Monroe. He enjoyed gardening, fishing, hunting, and playing horseshoes. Harry was also a gifted artist and loved to draw. Most of all Harry enjoyed his family. Harry is survived by eight loving children: Harry (Bonnie) Collum, Jr., Brian (Dawn) Collum, Kenneth Collum, Michael (Frances) Collum, Ronald (Lisa) Collum, John Collum, Patricia (Chipper) Smith, and Peggy (Wade) Tolle all of Monroe, 21 cherished grandchildren and 32 treasured great grandchildren. In addition to his parents and beloved wife Elma, Harry was preceded in death by a granddaughter Nichole Smith-Henry and two brothers: Allen and Bert Collum. Visitation will be held on Monday from 6-8 PM and Tuesday from 1-8 PM in the Bacarella Funeral Home, 1201 S. Telegraph Rd in Monroe where Fr. William Fisher will hold a Scripture Service at 7:00 PM on Tuesday. He will lie in state Wednesday, September 26, 2012 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Monroe from 9:00 AM until Mass of the Resurrection celebrating his life at 10:00 AM. Fr. Raymond Lewandowski will be the celebrant. Interment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery in Monroe where the VFW Post 1138 will conduct military honors. Memorial contributions are suggested to Mercy Memorial Hospice of Monroe.