William R. Thorum

William “Bill” Russell Thorum, 92, of Wynnewood, PA, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 23, 2023 at Lankenau Medical Center. Born Monday, June 16, 1930 in Hellam, PA, he was the son of the late Dr. Alma Alfonso and Mary Baxtresser Thorum. He was married 55 years to Wendy Steveni (Rees) Thorum who passed away in October of 2011.

Bill grew up in Hellam where he enjoyed the outdoors and playing sports. His family then moved to the Spring City area where Bill “Doc” Thorum starred as a high school Junior running back on the undefeated 1946 Pirates football team. Bill went on to attend and play football at Drexel University and eventually earned a Bachelors degree from the University of Pennsylvania. He also served and was honorably discharged from the US Army in 1956 earning the National Defense Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal in the process.

Bill spent the majority of his work career at Will Eye Hospital in Philadelphia where he carried the title of Director of Personnel, Human Resources until his retirement. He loved his dogs and they were his loyal companions including: Winnie I and Winnie II; Cooper, Zorn and Nala. He was an avid outdoorsman and would take his dogs on hours long hikes through the woods and mountains of Maine. Bill was an avid Philadelphia sports fan, especially his beloved Eagles, who he had the enjoyment of cheering on to the Super Bowl in his final months. Bill also loved music and was an accomplished Karaoke singer, and on occasion, would entertain his fellow residents to their delight.

He is survived by his son Mark S. Thorum (Caterina) of Roanoke, VA; son Robin C. Thorum (Barbara) of Weems, VA and daughter Gayle Gobat (Daniel) of Wayne, PA and Gregory T. Thorum (Lindsay) of Philadelphia, as well as nine grandchildren and one great grandchild. In addition to his parents and wife Wendy, Bill was preceded in death by an older brother, Fons E. Thorum and an older sister, Gracie Denithorne.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2023 at 11:00 AM at the Marietta Cemetery, 229 West Fairview Avenue, Marietta, PA 17547. A light luncheon will follow at the Railroad House Inn located at 280 W. Front Street Marietta, PA 17547.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to the no-kill animal shelter of their choice.

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