Donald E. Crum

Donald “Don” Crum passed away peacefully on September 6, 2026, at the age of 83.

Don was the devoted husband of Carol (née Dudas) for 49 years; cherished father of Jacqueline (James) Major and David Crum; and doting grandfather of Gavin, Owen, Abigail, and Sophia Major. He was the beloved brother of the late Jerry (Patricia) Crum and Nancy Sutton, and a loving uncle to Camille, Adam, Chris, Mike, Sean, Janette, Tanya, Yuval, Laura, Brian, Steve, Allison, and many great-nieces and great-nephews.

Don proudly served his country as a United States Army veteran. Following his military service, he built a long career as a hardworking steelworker and proud member of USW Local 1010. He spent 39 years working at ArcelorMittal, where he worked countless shifts, told even more jokes, and formed friendships that lasted long beyond his years at the mill. He took great pride in the work he did and in the life that his hard work helped him build for his family.

But of all the things Don was proud of, nothing compared to his grandchildren. They were truly the light of his life. He loved being there for them and took tremendous pride in everything they did. Whether he was watching a water polo match, cheering from the sidelines of a football game, listening proudly at a violin recital, or watching a cheer competition, Grandpa was there—always watching, always cheering, and always proud.

Don was a man who worked hard, loved his family deeply, enjoyed a good joke, and didn’t spend much time feeling sorry for himself. When asked how he was doing, his familiar response was, “Can’t complain, wouldn’t do me any good.” It was more than one of his favorite sayings—it captured something about the way Don lived his life: keep going, find the humor, and don’t make too much fuss.

Don will be remembered for his strength, his humor, his loyalty to the people he loved, and the pride he took in his family. His greatest legacy lives on in the family he worked so hard for and loved so completely.

Don’s family will forever be grateful for the compassionate care provided by Lightways Hospice. Their kindness and support brought comfort during an incredibly difficult time. The family is also especially grateful to John of Pink Angels, who cared for Don during the last several months of his life. John’s gentle spirit, patience, and genuine care for Don provided a sense of peace and reassurance not only to Don, but to the entire family. His kindness will always hold a special place in our hearts.

And for everyone who knew Don well enough to ask how he was doing, it is easy to imagine what he would say one more time:

“Can’t complain, wouldn’t do me any good.”

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of those who loved him.

Family will receive friends at Kurtz Memorial Chapel, 65 Old Frankfort Way, Frankfort, IL 60423 on Saturday, September 12th, 2026, from 3PM until time of funeral service at 5PM. Inurnment private at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery Elwood, IL. 

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to https://www.hickorycreekchurch.org/giving