Virginius George Shrum

WWII Veteran, Private First Class V. Gene Shrum died peacefully on Nov 5th, 2014 surrounded by his family. He joins, in heaven, his Wife Ruby and Son Terry. Gene was born May 1, 1918, one of five children born to Archie and Hulda Shrum in Washugal WA. He completed the 8th grade but then left school to work. His first job paid .25/day. He used his first paycheck to put a refrigerator on lay-away for his mother. Gene grew up hunting and fishing and was on a first name basis with all the game wardens. His favorite hunting partners were his Son Terry and Grandson Kelly. They continued this tradition well past his 90th birthday. He met Ruby while working at the Pendleton Woolen Mills. They Married in 1939 and had their only Son Terry in 1948. Gene joined the army in 1944 and served with the 49th infantry division in Europe until 1946. Upon returning home he went to work for Ardee Pest Control and continued there for close to 40 years. He and Ruby attended the Foursquare church with three generations of their family. Gene was a hardworking, trustworthy person. He would often stop to greet a stranger or lend a hand. He was generous with his time, his expertise and his money. His family was his greatest joy and they knew it. Gene brought joy to the people around him right up to the day he died. He will be very dearly missed. Service Information