Theodore Lum

Theodore "Ted" Lum passed away peacefully on October 7 2024, at the age of 87, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, laughter, and unwavering devotion to his family.

Born on December 20, 1936, in the Town of Butternuts, Ted was a son of Stanley and Rachel Lum. He attended Gilbertsville and New Berlin Schools, where he began to cultivate the joyful spirit that would define his life. Ted worked tirelessly for over thirty years at Yaegle's saw mill, followed by several years of devoted farm work and service at the local cemetery. His strong work ethic was only matched by his cheerful personality; Ted was always happy and smiling, never uttering a bad word about anything.

Known for his quick wit and love for cracking jokes, Ted found joy in the simplest things, like the candy bars he often tucked behind the seat of his truck—a whimsical reminder of his playful nature. He enjoyed farm days, music, and singing, and shared many memorable moments with his brother Walt as they worked on tractors and engines together. To Ted, the world was filled with laughter, and he never failed to find humor even in life's challenges, affectionately referring to the hospital as "the holding corral."

A true gentleman, Ted loved his family more than anything, pouring all of his heart into protecting and supporting them. His love radiated through his actions, and he took immense pride in his role as a brother and uncle. He is survived by beloved siblings Frances Keene of Oneida, Alice Nichols of South New Berlin, Janice and John Simmons of Chittenango, Walt and Mary Lum of West Winfield, and several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews

Though he is preceded in death by his parents, Stanley and Rachel Lum, brothers James, Keith, and Thomas Lum, and sisters Katherine Dugan and Mary Welch, Ted's spirit remains alive in the hearts of all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

He was so appreciative of his caretakers: niece Bonnie and her husband Gerald Gutshall, his brother and sister-in-law Walter and Mary Lum, sister Alice Nichols, niece Tina Nichols, niece Diana Banta and nephew James Holmes, great niece and husband Mya and Shaun Jones, and friends Barbara Jones and Katie Kachowski. 

A visitation will be held on October 11, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Dakin Funeral Home in New Berlin, NY, with a funeral service at 11:00AM , followed by a burial at Riverside Cemetery. Friends and family are invited to gather and celebrate the life of a remarkable man who touched so many lives with his kindness, humor, and unyielding love at the South New Berlin Firehouse immediately following services. Ted Lum will forever be remembered for his joyful outlook on life and his profound connection to his family, which was the cornerstone of his existence.