April 2, 2024
Remembering a Hero: Frank Klum, WWII Veteran and Inspirational Leader, Passes Away at 101
By Cindy Peterson
Remembering a Hero: Frank Klum, WWII Veteran and Inspirational Leader, Passes Away at 101
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Clermont resident Frank Klum, a beloved WWII veteran and cherished friend to many. Frank passed away Monday at the age of 101, leaving behind a legacy of courage, kindness, and service that will forever be remembered.
Frank Klum’s life was marked by extraordinary bravery and unwavering dedication to his country. Born on January 24, 1923, in Wilmire, Pennsylvania, Frank enlisted in the Army Air Corps on December 9, 1941, just two days after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Serving with distinction in the 12th Air Force during World War II, Frank saw action in North Africa, Sicily, Italy, and Corsica. He retired as a Master Sergeant, earning numerous medals, including the Bronze Star, Good Conduct Medal, American Defense Service Medal, and the Presidential Unit Citation.
He was featured in Lake & Sumter Style Magazine in October of 2022 as an Extraordinary Person. See that article here –> https://lakeandsumterstyle.com/frank-klum/
After the war, Frank continued to serve his country with honor, remaining in the military until 1962. He then transitioned to a civilian career, spending 22 years with the U.S. Postal Service.
In addition to his remarkable service, Frank was known for his kindness, love, and generosity. He was instrumental in helping Benjamin Mack-Jackosn, owner of the non-profit WWII Veterans History Project .
“Frank had a transformational role in forming my nonprofit and was a longtime member of our board of directors, but his impact on my life and work goes far beyond that,” Benjamin said in a Facebook post. “Frank became family in every sense of the word. On every birthday, holiday, and special occasion, he would call and play a song on his trumpet – using an instrument he originally purchased in 1941 in high school. Every year, my parents, grandmother, and I received these special calls, and I know I speak for all of us when I say we will sorely miss them.”
Frank’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him, but his memory will continue to inspire and uplift us.
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Originally from the small town of Berryville, Arkansas, Cindy has become a multimedia specialist in journalism, photography, videography, and video editing. She has a B.S. in Communications from the University of Central Arkansas and produces Style Magazine's Sports Hub Podcast and the Healthy Living Podcast. She also produces for Beacon College’s Telly Award-winning PBS show, “A World of Difference.” When she isn’t working, Cindy loves traveling the National Parks with her husband , Ryan, and son, David, photographing wildlife.
I never actually met Frank in person but on several occasions on my birthday he would call me “way up here in Maine” to wish me happy birthday and play the Happy Birthday tune on his trumpet. And then we would have a nice long chat. What a wonderful treat, something I will always remember. Thank you Frank for your service to our country.
Rest well Master Sargeant.
Frank was my dear brother at our VFW 5277. He will surely be missed! I was just speaking of him with another WWII veteran I met residing at the Lake Baldwin VA nursing home. I am in tears. I really loved Frank not only as my fellow VFW brother but I was so honored to have a WWII Veteran at my side. He was a kind and gentle man. Frank, even as you leave us you set the standards high Master Sergeant at 101. I will never forget you. Thank you for being you.