Mark J. Blum

Mark Blum, of Fremont (formerly Galion), Ohio, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 14, 2026.

Mark was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and faithful servant of God whose quiet generosity and unwavering kindness touched countless lives.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Annie (Gutschalk) Blum; his children, Rachel (Jim) Lott, Erin (Jeffrey) Shannon, and Timothy (Annie Diorio) Blum; and his cherished grandchildren, Lauren, Alex, and Genevieve Lott; Vienna, Matthew, and Felicity Shannon; and Marta and Mirella Blum. In addition, he leaves sisters, Carol (Dusty) Osburn, Ruth Laibe, Terry (Dan) Haas, and brothers Fr. Steve, Rick, & Roger (Sue) Blum as well as in-laws Martha (Lou) Kummerer, Angie (Mike) Mehling, Diane Gutschalk, Dave (Mary) and Mark (Jody) Gutschalk and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Jane Blum.

Mark dedicated 42 years of his career to PPG, where he was known for his strong work ethic and commitment.

Mark had a love of cars, enjoyed landscaping and having a beautiful lawn & garden. However, Mark's greatest passion was photography. He was especially well known for his beautiful nature photography, sharing God's creation through his camera lens. More often than not, Mark was the one behind the camera, preserving precious memories for everyone else.

His Catholic faith was the foundation of his life. Mark brought communion to local nursing home residents, participated in Men's Cursillo retreats & a men's bible study group for many years. His faith was not simply something he professed-it was something he lived each day through his service to others.

Mark never waited to be asked for help. Whether shoveling a neighbor's driveway, mowing a lawn, washing a car or quietly helping wherever he saw a need, he found joy in surprising others through random acts of kindness.

To his grandchildren, he was simply "Papa Mark." They will forever treasure memories of tractor rides, cleaning cars, building sandcastles during family vacations, sharing ice cream, and spending time with the grandfather who loved them so dearly.

Mark will be remembered for his sense of humor, generous heart, steadfast faith, and the quiet example he set for everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Calling hours will be 9-11am followed immediately by a Mass and luncheon at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Fremont, OH on the 29th of August. Interment will take place at St. Joseph Cemetery. For those not able to attend, the Mass will be live-streamed on: www.sacredheart-fremont.org.

Memorial donations may be made to Cursillo in Christianity, Sacred Heart Church, Galion St. Joseph Church, or the charity of the donor's choice.

The family wishes to express their deep appreciation for all the love and support of neighbors, friends, parish families, extended family, Heartland Hospice, and Elmwood staff who have walked alongside us with such care and compassion.

Herman-Karlovetz Funeral Home & Creamtory has been entrusted with arrangements.