Obituary for David Barrett Kellum
David Barrett Kellum, loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend, age 87, of Egg Harbor Township, passed away on February 13, 2023, at home surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with cancer. David's love for life will not end with his, as his legacy will live on in those who loved him.
Born on April 04, 1935, in Chambersburg, PA, David spent beloved summers on the Ventnor beach where he nurtured his passion for swimming, boating, and fishing. He went on to attend Valley Forge Military Academy where he developed lifelong friendships and a boundless appreciation for learning. In 1958 he joined the Army National Guard and continued his education at Rutgers University, earning a B.S. in Biological Sciences in 1962. By 1963, David was appointed teaching principal at Belhaven Avenue School in Linwood. He would go on to teach math and science at New Gretna School District and Port Republic School. Later, he owned and operated the Wacky Whale Marina in Margate where he spent his days savoring the joys of being on the water, his favorite place to be. Well into his retirement, David returned to the workforce dedicating over 25 years to Atlantic County Mosquito Control.
David was the truest of Renaissance men. In fact, he defined the very characteristics. He was a talented musician, skilled woodworker, avid fisherman and hunter. As a true lover of books and history, he could give anyone a run for their money in Jeopardy and chess. He enjoyed travel, hiking, camping and other adventures. He delighted in cooking and hosting weekly dinner parties. He was passionate about square dancing and even sang in a barbershop quartet. His generosity extended into the community as he had been a Boy Scout Leader, literacy tutor and dedicated volunteer to many organizations. Most of all, what summed David up was his love for family.
David was preceded in death by his mother, Esther, father, Guyton; stepfather, Jack and sister, Mary. He leaves behind his faithful dance partner and cherished wife of 34 years, Pamela; daughters, Rosemary, Virginia, Heather (Rick), and Amy (Andrew); grandchildren, Dustin, Malachai, Nicholas, Ashley, Jules, Cheyenne, Moriah, and Amelia; niece, Bonnie Jo, and a host of other family and friends.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 23, at 10am at Beacon Evangelical Free Church in Galloway followed by a memorial service at 11am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to Reading Is Fundamental at www.rif.org.
Born on April 04, 1935, in Chambersburg, PA, David spent beloved summers on the Ventnor beach where he nurtured his passion for swimming, boating, and fishing. He went on to attend Valley Forge Military Academy where he developed lifelong friendships and a boundless appreciation for learning. In 1958 he joined the Army National Guard and continued his education at Rutgers University, earning a B.S. in Biological Sciences in 1962. By 1963, David was appointed teaching principal at Belhaven Avenue School in Linwood. He would go on to teach math and science at New Gretna School District and Port Republic School. Later, he owned and operated the Wacky Whale Marina in Margate where he spent his days savoring the joys of being on the water, his favorite place to be. Well into his retirement, David returned to the workforce dedicating over 25 years to Atlantic County Mosquito Control.
David was the truest of Renaissance men. In fact, he defined the very characteristics. He was a talented musician, skilled woodworker, avid fisherman and hunter. As a true lover of books and history, he could give anyone a run for their money in Jeopardy and chess. He enjoyed travel, hiking, camping and other adventures. He delighted in cooking and hosting weekly dinner parties. He was passionate about square dancing and even sang in a barbershop quartet. His generosity extended into the community as he had been a Boy Scout Leader, literacy tutor and dedicated volunteer to many organizations. Most of all, what summed David up was his love for family.
David was preceded in death by his mother, Esther, father, Guyton; stepfather, Jack and sister, Mary. He leaves behind his faithful dance partner and cherished wife of 34 years, Pamela; daughters, Rosemary, Virginia, Heather (Rick), and Amy (Andrew); grandchildren, Dustin, Malachai, Nicholas, Ashley, Jules, Cheyenne, Moriah, and Amelia; niece, Bonnie Jo, and a host of other family and friends.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 23, at 10am at Beacon Evangelical Free Church in Galloway followed by a memorial service at 11am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to Reading Is Fundamental at www.rif.org.