Donald Clark Gillum

Donald Clark Gillum, of Ellington, Wisconsin, who formerly lived on the shore of Anvil Lake, east of Eagle River, WI. died peacefully at home on December 2, 2016 cared for by family and friends. Don was born in Los Angeles, California, October 22, 1937 to Mary Bell (Bowie) Gillum, and Virgil (Red) Gillum. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Sandra (Sandy) Thatcher Gillum, daughter Jane Gillum Larson (Michael) of MI and was Papa Don to their children Elizabeth, Kathryn, and Thomas and preceded in death by their daughter, Haley. Don is also survived by son Bradford Thatcher Gillum and his children Caroline and Connie of IL. and by his sister Betty Jean Gillum McCloud (Monty) their children and grandchildren, cousins Dr. William Bowie, Craig Bowie, and Susan Bowie McCoy all of California, and sister-in-law Jane Thatcher White (Ronald) and their children Ryan, Brittany, and Collin of Indiana.

Don attended Occidental College (CA), graduated from Presbyterian Parsons College, IA, and earned an MBA from DePaul University, Chicago. His career as an Insurance Broker spanned 50 years beginning at Marsh & McLennan and Meyers-Baker, Inc., both in Chicago and later as president of Northwoods Insurance Associates, Inc. in Eagle River from 1996 to 2015. Don held graduate insurance designations in Property Casualty, Life, Loss Control Management, and Risk Management and brokered marine, property, casualty, and personal lines.

His children and grandchildren, music, tinkering, sailing, re-building an antique car, building a guitar, kites, and radio controlled sailboat and planes, and recently being a beekeeper brought him immense enjoyment. In the Northwoods he could be found snowshoeing, hiking with his dog, cross-country skiing, kayaking, and enjoying a host of friends. His love of music lead him to join the UCC choir, Northwoods Singers, Vacationland Voices, Christmas Cantata, and participate in live radio plays.

Don helped with the development of Great Headwaters (bike) Trails, served as president of Anvil Lake Association, worked on fundraising for Northwoods YMCA, and served on several boards at First Congregational United Church of Christ Eagle River.

A service celebrating Don's life will be held at First Congregation United Church of Christ in springtime. Date and time will be announced.

Don spent hours assisting in the development of Land Use Agreements for Great Headwater Trails. A fund has been established with GHT. Donations can be made payable to “Great Headwaters Trails”, noting “Don Gillum Memorial” in the memo line.