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302-478-7100 Wilmington & Hockessin, DE

Allen M. Schrum

Allen Mitchell Schrum, 69, of Landenberg, PA passed away suddenly on February 25, 2024. His departure comes as a great shock and is gravely felt by his entire family and countless others who were lucky enough to know him.

Al was born on July 18, 1954 to Allen and Carolyn Schrum of his beloved town of Spring Grove, PA. From a small apartment above Zeigler’s Hardware Store, to the little house on North Water Street, to his childhood home on Main, Al cherished everything about small town living.

While his pride for his hometown never faltered, when it came time for college he ventured to “the other side of the river” to pursue a physical education degree at West Chester University. While there, he played football and was the first (self-proclaimed) “pulling center” on the offensive line for the Golden Rams. During the summer he was hired as a sheet metal worker and after graduating joined Local 19 Sheet Metal Union, a decision that led him to a teaching position with New Castle County Vocational Technical School District. During his tenure with the district, Al held the position of sheet metal instructor, football coach, vocational specialist, assistant principal and finally retiring as the supervisor of adult education.

Al always enjoyed working and was proud of the career he built, but nothing was more important to him than family. In 1979 he married Denise, the love of his life, and together they raised their two boys, Al (String Bean) and Jake (Roundie). While he had many nicknames (Schrummy, Clerm, Big Al, The Commissioner) his favorite people called him Pop. Al was an exemplary father and grandfather, a devoted husband and a friend to everyone. An eternal and slightly annoying optimist, he saw the best in everyone and found joy in the little things. He was an avid Philadelphia sports fan and loyal WIP listener, bicycle enthusiast, Springsteen fan, and lover of math (with a keen eye for the number 54). His quick wit and affably inappropriate sense of humor made him the life of the party, it was nearly impossible to be with him without a smile on your face. Aside from his cherished home nestled in the woods of Landenberg, Sea Isle City, NJ was Al’s “heaven on earth”. He spent 40+ years vacationing at the shore with family and was ready to make plans for 40 more.

Al is survived by his loving wife of nearly 45 years, Denise Schrum (nee Driscoll); best friends and sons Allen Mitchell Schrum (Jessica) and Jacob William Schrum (Tara); adored grandchildren, Nolan, Juliet, Henry, Owen, Isaac and Levi; mother Carolyn Schrum (nee Mathias); sister Christine Rohrbaugh (Paul); brother-in-law William Driscoll (Susan); as well as many cousins and nephews who will fondly remember him. He was predeceased by his father Allen Schrum; father in-law William Driscoll; and mother in-law Margaret Driscoll (nee Everly).

While it’s hard for us to imagine a path forward without our Clerm, we know that he will continue to send signs to help guide our way. Please join us in celebrating his life and sharing your stories of this legendary man, whom we are so grateful to have been able to call our own. We will gather together on Monday, March 4th, 2024 at Chandler Funeral Home located at 7230 Lancaster Pike, Hockessin, Delaware. Visitation will begin at 10:30 am with a memorial service to follow at 12:00 pm.

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Funeral Services

Monday, March 4th 2024 at Chandler Funeral Home located at 7230 Lancaster Pike, Hockessin, Delaware. Visitation will begin at 10:30 am with a memorial service to follow at 12:00 pm.

Condolences

    Sandy (Hitchens) Herbst writes,
    Al will forever be in my memory as a happy, cheerful, fun loving soul and Denise smiling, sometimes smiling as she did an eye roll. May God give your family strength and courage to move forward, one day at a time, sometimes one breath at a time. One foot in front of the other. The community sends love your way. 🙏
    02/29/2024 10:23 am
    Kathy & Bill Ruck lit a candle and writes,
    Al was a great neighbor to us many, many years. Lately on our walks on “the Ridge” we would often cross paths with Al and enjoy conversations with him. His love of his family was very apparent in these conversations. He could always bring a smile to our faces. He will be greatly missed in our neighborhood.
    02/29/2024 10:26 am
    Dana and Seumas Trull lit a candle and writes,
    Al came to say hello and welcome us the day we moved into our home and quickly became a friend and wonderful neighbor. He always brought a smile to our faces, and radiated positively and love to everyone around him. Al was truly a one of a kind and will be deeply missed. Sending all of our love to Denise and the rest of his family during this difficult time. Our hearts and prayers are with you.
    02/29/2024 11:29 am
    Suzy Hench Fabian writes,
    All I can add is that Allen lived a life worth living, and it ended far too early. I grew up with Allen; his greatest accomplishments came after The Grove, and reading all of them made me smile… an Allen I never knew past 18. Allen, you will never be forgotten, and your legacy lives on in the lives of your family… and your classmates of 1972. Peace be with your loved ones. Suzy.
    02/29/2024 11:46 am
    Rosemary Bauer writes,
    I am so saddened by this news and my heart aches for all of you, knowing what the days and months ahead will bring. Al was bigger than life, but he will always be remembered by the Bauer family for this one simple gift... Every year following 9-11-2001, Al showed up at 114 Stoney Ridge on the evening of September 11 with two cold beers. One for him and one for Bob. No, the gift wasn't the beer. The gift was his presence. Every. Single. Year. Fondly, Rosemary
    02/29/2024 02:06 pm
    Gerald Hyman lit a candle and writes,
    So sorry to hear this…Al worked with my Dad Sam for local 19…I remember him as being super positive and funny… he was like an uncle to me growing up… always gave me encouragement for my sports. The world has lost a great man. 😢
    02/29/2024 02:13 pm
    Michael Donlon writes,
    Al was a great neighbor and Lisa and I will miss him. If there was ever a need for a favor, Al was happy to be of help, without expecting anything in return. Just a good person to be friends with. Condolences to Denise and the rest of the family.
    02/29/2024 05:05 pm
    Gordon G Hendry writes,
    Thanks for all the help in AED over the years, always enjoyed a visit. Gordon Hendry
    02/29/2024 05:42 pm
    Leslie Teitsworth writes,
    I met Al when I began teaching at Kemblesville Elementary in Chester County, Pa. His wife, Denise, and I were colleagues. Soon my first husband and I started hanging out with the Schrum’s. He always made me laugh and when my first husband left me, he was empathetic to my situation. I could tell how much he loved Denise and his boys. A great man , inside and out. Blessings to the family. It’s gut wrenching to lose a family member. May you go forward with him at your side spiritually.
    02/29/2024 05:57 pm
    Ed Crumlish writes,
    I first me Al when he was an apprentice at I.D. Griffith, Inc. Over the years, we worked together on many jobs in many different locations. I called him in the summer of 1991, and suggested he apply for vacant the Sheet Metal teaching position that was available at Delcastle H.S. He was the successful candidate and he continued to demonstrate that the District made the correct choice as he molded and influenced students in both the classroom and athletic field. Once he left the classroom, he continued to have a positive impact at both the high school and adult education levels. Al's technical expertise, plus his interpersonal skills coupled with his common sense approach to problem solving (not to mention his sense of humor) made him an invaluable contributor and leader. I often said, "I never met anyone who didn't like Al Schrum". I was lucky to be able to call him my friend. He will be missed by all who knew him.
    02/29/2024 06:35 pm
    Joan Snyder writes,
    Denise, Al, and Jake I’m so shocked and saddened by this news. I’ll never forget the years I spent in the AED office with Al. We had so many good times and we had our disagreements, but our days were never dull. I will always remember him fondly. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your whole family.
    02/29/2024 07:12 pm
    John Reinholt lit a candle and writes,
    Had the privilege of working for Al part time at VoTech Adult School. From the first day he made me feel welcome , and always gave support when needed. Later I enjoyed his company with the Middletown Senior Men’s Golf League. Always a bright smile and a sincere “How are You”?
    02/29/2024 07:36 pm
    Diane Welch lit a candle and writes,
    I am so sorry to hear this. I have so many good memories of Al. All those years ago with our young boys. Was just looking at pictures of Al dancing at one of our parties. Always in my heart. Hoping you all find peace in his memory & goodness.
    02/29/2024 09:50 pm
    Christine Rohrbaugh writes,
    Beautiful tribute to a wonderful brother and friend. Although we did not live close, I knew he was only a phone call away. Had a great childhood with him and all the "Water Street" gang, never knowing what he and his buddies would do next. When he was there, never a dull moment. Will miss your phone calls and visits...until we meet again, I love you, "Sister"!!!
    03/01/2024 08:42 am
    Andy & Sharon Brough lit a candle and writes,
    To Denise, Little Al, Jake and the entire extended Schrum family – It is so uplifting to read the wonderful obituary you all wrote, to read the many wonderful comments written here, and to share with friends all of the fond and happy memories of the incredible man we all knew. As a friend said in a text exchange earlier this week, “He was just such a loving and sincere man.” So very true! Allen became like a big brother to me in 1970 when I was a 10 year old kid, and for the next 54 years, he NEVER let me down. He was ALWAYS positive, ALWAYS my biggest supporter, ALWAYS there to hold me up in the tough times, and ALWAYS there to lift me up in the best of times. Absolutely the best role model a young man could ever have, and for that, I’ll be forever grateful to him. We all know he’s looking down right now with that great smile on his face and a ton of pride in the loving family he created and the many, many friends he touched. Rest in Peace Allen Schrum, until we meet again.
    03/01/2024 09:51 am
    Jim King writes,
    I met Al when he started working as Sheet Metal Instructor in the " A" wing at Delcastle in 1991. At the time, I was the Auto Technology instructor right down the hallway and I came to know Al, as many people did, as a jovial, happy man with exceptional sheet metal skills. He passed along his knowledge of mathematics, geometry, and drafting while teaching his students the craft of laying out and making the various fittings used in the sheet metal trade. The battery box he made for me when I was restoring an antique tractor is still on it and is as good as new. Al was a family man who loved his wife, children and eventually, grandchildren. "Pop-Pop duty " was frequent and he looked forward to it. He enjoyed life and lived it to the fullest. He loved golf and would not hesitate to buy another golf club he did not need. Sadly, he was taken from us far too soon. RIP, Al.
    03/01/2024 10:23 am
    Roseann Dundon lit a candle and writes,
    My sincerest condolences to Denise and her family. You are in my thoughts and prayers at this sad time.
    03/01/2024 10:26 am
    Linda (Glatfelter) Legore lit a candle and writes,
    It was just a pleasure growing up with Al. He always had a smile on his face and a remark that would bring a smile to your face. It’s so hard to believe he left us to early, but there are so many “Water Street” stories that will keep us all rembering for a very long time.Rest in peace friend!
    03/01/2024 12:59 pm
    Zute
    03/01/2024 01:04 pm
    Lois Weir writes,
    My deepest sympathy for you and your family.
    03/01/2024 01:11 pm
    Kathy and Dan Boylan lit a candle and writes,
    Al was the first person we met before moving to Pa. We brought our son hip to Little League try outs and there he was on the field like the welcoming committee. We are so sorry for your loss. He was gone much too soon. God Bless!
    03/02/2024 07:56 am
    Suzanne Olski lit a candle and writes,
    Denise, Al, and Jake, I remember your husband/dad as bigger than life and a light in the world. He brought joy to so many. He was greatly loved and will be remembered as a man with integrity and strength. He has been a role model for students and friends throughout his lifetime. He was so proud of his family. You were his joy. Denise, I am so sorry. I pray that you will find solace in the lifetime of memories you have in your heart and mind.
    03/02/2024 03:38 pm
    sam hyman lit a candle and writes,
    I was fortunate to have worked with Al over the years at I.D. Griffith. He was a great friend on and off the job. Because of his personality and sense of humor, he was admired by anyone who met him. I will always miss my buddy Al.
    03/02/2024 05:28 pm
    Stacey Hyman lit a candle and writes,
    My dad Sam revered Al as one of his closest friends, and the one I remember most fondly and loving of his friends from my childhood. The Hymans are all devastated by his sudden and unexpected passing. Our hearts and prayers go out to the family.
    03/03/2024 03:30 am
    Joseph Schorah lit a candle and writes,
    My deepest sympathy and condolences to the family! I met Al as an apprentice in DeSeta sheet metal shop. Al would always be joking and keeping everything lighthearted no matter the circumstances. He was an amazing person and will be missed by anyone who had the privilege to have met him. May your memories be a blessing.
    03/03/2024 08:53 am
    Debbie Wanstall lit a candle and writes,
    As I have driven up and down Stoney Ridge Road this past week, I have seen Al in my memory walking along the road. I know I will think of him for a very long time. I really only got to know him in the past few months. He told me to call him Big Al. He made me a walking stick just like his. He told me it would turn brown as it aged. He told me I only needed to walk 5 minutes a day - with my stick. He was an encourager, and a very kind man. He even brought my empty garbage can from the curb back to my garage on several occasions. I have meant many people in my lifetime but few have reached in and touched my heart. He was one of them. He was a good person and will be missed. i especially want to extend my sincere sympathy to his family. You were so lucky to have had him. Small acts of kindness - that is what he did. Debbie and Jim Wanstall
    03/03/2024 11:29 am
    Mario R DiTeodoro jr. lit a candle and writes,
    Big Al was a great guy to work with and a great negotiator on a certain white Sportster :)
    03/03/2024 06:31 pm
    Albert Anderson sr lit a candle and writes,
    I had the privilege of meeting Al when he was the sheet metal instructor at Delcastle.Al was all ways willing to assist me on a lot of school projects for the school.One day I visited his shop& I asked him if he ever drilled a square hole? He couldn't stop laughing.I had learned that from Mr.Larry Beers.From that day on Al would start laughing when ever he saw me.I was saddened to hear of his death.My sincere condolences to the family.May God comfort you during this difficult time.
    03/03/2024 06:53 pm
    Steve and Robin Senft writes,
    Allen was a great friend and will be sadly missed
    03/03/2024 09:14 pm
    Dale Derrickson lit a candle and writes,
    I worked with Al when he was an assistant principal and when he was the supervisor of adult ed. He pleasant helpfulness made everyone feel welcome. If you could help him in any way, he was sincerely appreciative. I remember him talking fondly about his family. He also mentioned touring on his motorcycle many times. The world needs more people like Al; unfortunately we now have one less. Al, you will be missed by many.
    03/03/2024 09:45 pm
    Jenn Morrow lit a candle and writes,
    Working with Al in Adult Education was always refreshing and fun. His Dad jokes were always on the ready and as a math teacher myself he would regularly ask to come into my class and teach a lesson on the fly. I’m also a Jersey shore girl and Al and I would often find ourselves talking about how much better the shore was than Delaware beaches. As said over and over, Al loved his family above all. He talked about you all constantly. Praying for comfort for you, and will continue to pray in the days to come. This is a tremendous and sad loss, Al was a great man and will always be remembered fondly.
    03/04/2024 07:58 am
    Jim Simmons writes,
    First to Denise , Al and Jake and the rest of the family my condolences. Schrummy was one of a kind. His kindness, humor and loyalty are unmatched. The best thing I can say instead of one of the million stories is…. He made me want to be a good father! He will be truly missed. God bless the family.
    03/04/2024 08:10 am
    Pasquale Bucci lit a candle and writes,
    My sincere sympathy for your loss. I can't imagine what you are going through. Some day I will have to be strong as well. Your friend, Pat Bucci
    03/04/2024 08:48 am
    Gordon Hilts writes,
    Wishing you peace during this difficult time. Gordie
    03/04/2024 09:13 am
    Sheila Harrison writes,
    Denise, Al, and Jake, Phil and i are so saddened with the news about Al.(I, always, knew him as Schrummy). We are sending prayers and strength to you during your time of grieving. He left many memories with family for you all to laugh and enjoy. Just remember, you will meet him again one day.❤️🥲
    03/04/2024 12:11 pm
    Darlene Driscoll writes,
    So sorry to learn about Al's passing. Denise you and your family are in my prayers. There are no words that can ease the pain of loss. All of you are in my thoughts at this time. Know that taking one day at a time will help you through your grief. Al will forever be in your heart.
    03/04/2024 12:50 pm
    Nicholas Raymond lit a candle and writes,
    Our deepest condolences go out to the Schrum family at this very difficult time. Al was a great man and he will be missed dearly.
    03/05/2024 06:23 pm
    John landis writes,
    Will miss you old buddy wish we could have hung out later in life
    03/06/2024 07:26 am
    Paul Weaver writes,
    What a great guy! Always brought a smile to my face anytime I was with Al! Condolences, hugs and prayers to the family.
    03/09/2024 10:39 am
    Leigh Anna Moran writes,
    Denise and family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I remember laughing with you both many times and I know that he will be missed. May your memories hold you tight! God bless you all! Leigh Anna
    03/12/2024 08:15 am
    Jennifer Andreas lit a candle and writes,
    My deepest sympathies to Allen's family. He was a sports hero of Spring Grove High School and to the Spring Grove Community. Allen's parents were very well respected and loved in Spring Grove and their children, Christine and Allen were always thought of as genuine and precious by all who knew them. Allen's leadership in the sports community extended way beyond this venue as he was a very positive influence to many of his peers and to the youth of Spring Grove. He will be greatly missed and remembered as someone who touched so many people because of his positivity, his integrity and his inspirational character.
    03/12/2024 09:50 pm
    Tim Halsey writes,
    I was so sad to hear of Al's passing. I hadn't known him long He would come into the Kemblesville Post Office and greet me with his big smile when he was mailing letters and ask me how my spider was doing our little joke. I send my condolences to the family I'm sure it is going to hard without that happy person around. Tim Halsey
    03/15/2024 04:54 pm
    Tim Halsey lit a candle
    03/15/2024 04:57 pm
    Karen Fleming Schuler Cherry lit a candle and writes,
    Denise, so sorry to hear of Al’s passing I remember when you met him in WC He lived rt below me God bless Take care Karen
    06/26/2024 08:52 am
    John & Sandy Carmichael lit a candle and writes,
    We truly missed attending the Celebration of Life service but knew our place was to watch your six beloved grandchildren that day. Today, July 18th, on the day of your birth, we send our love and prayers. Though you are not with us in a physical sense, your positive spirit lives on in all the countless lives you touched. We deeply miss our phone conversations and regret that the plans we had spoken about doing can no longer happen. We treasure the bamboo walking sticks you made for each of us and will think of you with every step and smile, remembering the many stories you shared and memories we made together. Thanks for teaching me the best way to cut a bagel. It continues to be an unimaginable time of grief for the family and friends of all who were blessed to know you. Your wit and humor and zest for life are wonderful examples we should try to follow as our lives continue on. No words can describe how sorry we are for your sudden loss or how privileged we feel to have become part of your family back in 2013. Today we pause to celebrate "Al Sr." or "Schrummy" and the positive impact you had on your family, friends, colleagues and even strangers. You were the perfect example of what "friendly" is supposed to mean and you knew how to laugh, even at yourself, and left smiles on the faces you saw each and every day. Nothing can take away a love the heart holds dear, God bless you and the life you lived. Happy Heavenly Birthday...I'm sure you'll keep the party going until we meet again. With Heartfelt Sympathy, Love and Gratitude, Sandy & John
    07/18/2024 06:27 am

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