Don Ray Gum

Gum, Don R. age 73 of Beavercreek lost his life in the airplane accident of the Wright “B” Flyer replica in Clark County, Ohio on Saturday, July 30, 2011. He is preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Christine (Sperling) Gum. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Janet (Gifford) Gum; children, Erica (Gum) and John Burson, Benjamin and Suzette Gum and Maria (Gum) and Ron Heady; and six beloved grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Bill Gum and numerous nieces and nephews. Don received his degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Cincinnati and his Master of Science from Ohio State University. He was a Professional Engineer, employed by WPAFB where he served as Branch Chief in the Simulation Techniques Branch in the Air Force Human Resources Laboratory, then in the Flight Dynamics Laboratory (AFRL). He served on the City of Beavercreek Planning Commission and spent his retirement doing what he loved – building and flying airplanes and spending time with family. He worked tirelessly to promote the legacy of the Wright Brothers though his volunteer service with the Wright “B” Flyer, Inc. and was a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association and Flying Angels, Inc. in New Carlisle. A Celebration of Life service will be held Thursday August 4th at 11 o’clock at Peace Lutheran Church 3530 Dayton-Xenia Rd. in Beavercreek. The family will receive visitors at the church from 6-9 pm on Wednesday August 3rd. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Wright “B” Flyer, Inc. or the Ohio Genealogical Society. Condolences can be sent to family at www.tobiasfuneralhome.com.