Waples W. Gum (1924-2023)

Waples Gum, 98 of Frankford, passed away peacefully at his home on May 25, 2023.

Waples was married to his wife Gloria, who preceded him in death in February of 2016, after being married for 72 years. Waples is survived by his son, Larry and his wife Christy of Millsboro, granddaughter Amy Simmons and her husband Robert of Millsboro, two great grandchildren Courtney Gum of Delmar, and Benjamin Simmons and his wife Bridget of Massachusetts and great -great grandchildren David and Isabelle both of Delmar. He is also survived by a host of friends who were much like family to him.

Born June 6,1924 he was the son of the late Francis and Carrie Gum. In addition to his parents, and wife he was predeceased by brother's Francis (Babe) Gum, Robert Gum, and sister Mary Elizabeth Houde (Shishie}.

He spent 35 years working at Banks Hardware prior to retirement. After retirement he began working for Grays Towing Service where he got to travel and see a lot of the country, and Eastern Shore that he didn't know existed. Waples was very well known in the community and had never met a stranger.

Waples entered the Navy in October of 1943 after being drafted where he was eventually stationed on the LST-714 where he spent the remainder of his service in the Pacific theater transporting troops and supporting activities until the end of the war.

Waples joined the Frankford Volunteer Fire Co. 1942 was an active member of the Frankford Fire Company for over 67 years. He originally joined the fire company as an auxiliary member at age 16 due to firemen leaving because of the draft for World War Two. Upon returning from his own military service, he rejoined the fire company as a senior member. During those years he served in a variety of roles including Vice President, Ambulance Captain, Fire Police, Fire Recorder and Chief Engineer for 10 years. His favorite memory of the fire service was helping with many events, but mainly keeping the trucks in working order.

He was a Lifetime Member of the Frankford Presbyterian Church and served on the session for many years. He enjoyed helping with the numerous events the church put on as well as looking after the property.

He was also a charter member of the Mason Dixon VFW Post 7234.

A full Fireman Service will be held Sunday, June 4, 2023 at Melson Funeral Home on Thatcher Street in Frankford. A viewing will be held from 12pm -1pm with services immediately following. Interment will be at Colonel Armwell Long Cemetery. The family welcomes everyone to return to Frankford Fire Department after interment for a time of fellowship and remembrance.

In lieu of flowers, donations should be made to Frankford Vol. Fire Department at P.O. Box 99 Frankford, DE 19945.