David Wayne Gum died on September 2, 2026, at the age of 80. Dave was born on November 24, 1945, at Frankfort Hospital. He grew up in Clinton County and graduated from Rossville High School in 1963. Dave served in the United States Air Force as an Airman First Class (A1C) from 1964 to 1968. He worked in Communication Electronic Maintenance and was stationed in Taiwan during the Vietnam War. After returning to Clinton County, he worked for the airlines at Purdue University.
In 1984, he married Carol Hamilton (Hutchison) of Frankfort. Together, they had one child, Ragan, and Carol had two children from a previous marriage, Derek and Kristi. Dave was employed by Kramer Lumber for 28 years, where he worked hard outdoors through all seasons to help support his family. After a long day in the lumberyard, he could often be found relaxing in his favorite recliner and watching Jeopardy! He was a fan of country music and family road trips, and he always carried his Pentax to capture their adventures. Dave and Carol enjoyed attending concerts and plays during their retirement years. During Carol’s years-long illness, Dave cared for her at home for as long as he was able. After she moved to a skilled nursing facility, he continued to visit her nearly every day.
Dave was also active in his community. For 25 years, he was a member of Rossville Lodge #318, where he earned the status of Past Master. He was also a blood donor for most of his adult life. Dave will be remembered for the steady, hardworking example he set for his family and his devotion to Carol through her long illness. He is survived by his children, Ragan (Kansas City, MO), Derek (Indianapolis, IN), and Kristi (Denver, CO), along with grandchildren, Aidan and Leo. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Ruth Gum, brother, John Gum, and his wife, Carol.
A memorial visitation will be held to honor Dave’s life on Sunday, September 27, 2026, from 1pm-3pm at Day and Genda Funeral Home in Frankfort. In lieu of flowers, please honor Dave’s memory by donating blood at your local community blood center or hospital network. Those wishing to share a memory or send a message to the family may do so at www.dayandgenda.com. Day & Genda Funeral Home is honored to assist the Gum family with the arrangements.