Ralph Daum

Ralph Daum of Peotone passed away while sitting in his recliner, watching the Cubs on September 8, 2014 . He was born on May 6, 1926 to Henry & Minnie Daum. Ralph lived in Peotone his entire life. The day after graduating from Peotone High School in 1944, he joined the Navy. He spent 2 years in World War II as an electrician's mate on the USS Otter in Northern Africa. After serving his country, he attended Coyne Electrical school in Chicago and in 1947 went into the electrical contracting business in Peotone. Several months later Ralph added appliance sales to the business known as Daum Electric. In 1980, the business was renamed Daum Appliance & TV, and continues in operation today. In 1950, Ralph married Ruth Warren at the West Peotone Methodist Church. They were blessed with 3 daughters - Jane, Sally, & Nancy and a son, Douglas, who died in infancy.

Ralph was a cornerstone in the Village of Peotone. He served as commander and was a 68 yr. member of the Peotone American Legion Post 392. He was instrumental in constructing the Legion Hall on North Street. He was past president of Peotone Chamber of Commerce and the oldest living member of the Peotone Fire Department. Ralph was an active member of the Peotone United Methodist Church, serving on the board of trustees for many years, and was significantly involved in 2 major remodeling projects. World travelers, Ralph & Ruth visited 47 countries during his lifetime. He also enjoyed navy reunions with fellow destroyer shipmates. In his spare time, he enjoyed gardening with his friends and was a founding member of the Peotone Conservative Garden Club. A dog lover, Ralph was often seen riding his motor scooter with his dog Herman in the sidecar. Ralph was a life-long Cub fan. He attended his first Cub game in 1931- "Wait 'til next year... "

Preceding him in death were his infant son, Douglas, and his brothers - Gerald and Robert. Ralph is survived by Ruth, his wife of 63 years, Jane (Mike) Jones of Peotone, Sally (Jim) Flynn of Sacramento, and Nancy (Eric) Lundahl of LaGrange Park. Grandchildren include Adam Jones, Abby (Chris) Jarchow, Ian (fiancée Jessica Jochim) McLean, Megan (David Morales) McLean, and Grant Lundahl.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial visitation will be held at the Fedde-Helfrich-Cross Funeral Home in Peotone on Friday, September 12, 2014 from 3:00-8:00 p.m. A memorial service will be held at the Peotone United Methodist Church on Saturday, September 13, 2014 at 11:00 a.m., Pastor Richard Young officiating. Inurnment with military honors will follow at Peotone Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Peotone United Methodist Church would be appreciated.