John H. Collum, 78 of Elmira NY escaped the clutches of dementia on Friday May 29, 2026 at the Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, PA.

He was born on February 10, 1948, in Elmira, New York. He grew up in Elmira, graduated from Elmira Free Academy, and received his bachelor's degree from Mansfield University and master's degree from Elmira College. John was known as a lifelong outdoorsman who shared his fervor and legacy for hunting and fishing with family and countless friends. He lived a life filled with adventure, laughter, learning, and a deep love for family and friends.

He leaves behind his devoted wife of 36 years, Denise (Andrus) Collum; his daughters, Lina (Dennis) Cavanaugh of North Carolina, Gina (Greg) Thompson of South Carolina, and Elizabeth (John) Harper of Poughkeepsie NY; David Collum of Elmira, NY, whom he loved as the son he never had; and his seven beloved grandchildren, Alexandria Collum, Laurren Collum, Christina Cavanaugh, Megan Cavanaugh, Denny Cavanaugh, John Ryan Harper, and Audrey Harper. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Emlyn Brown and Kara Bennett; members of the Andrus family; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, numerous cousins, and many dear friends.

John was predeceased by his parents, George and Dorothy "Kitty" (Cook) Collum; his brothers, Charlie Collum, Tracy Collum, and George Collum; and his brother-in-law, Ron Andrus.

John dedicated 33 years to education as a Social Studies teacher in the Elmira City School District. His passion for history, learning, and helping young people touched the lives of countless students. He left a lasting legacy as a teacher, colleague, and coach and is remembered as a mentor who encouraged curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.

In his younger years, John enjoyed playing softball and golf during the summer months and downhill skiing throughout the winter. His competitive spirit and love of the outdoors remained with him throughout his life.

John lived life to the fullest and cherished every moment spent with family and friends. Together with Denise, other family members, and many lifelong companions, he traveled the world in search of adventure. Whether hunting, fishing, skiing, rafting, canoeing, hiking, or simply exploring a new place, John was always ready for the next challenge. His adventures included skydiving, bungee jumping in Australia, swimming with sharks in Hawaii, white-water rafting, and countless river expeditions by raft and canoe.

An avid outdoorsman, John spent countless days fishing, hunting, canoeing, rafting, and enjoying nature. His home stands as a testament to a lifetime of adventure, often described by visitors as a museum of memories, filled with trophies, photographs, and stories from the many places he explored. Each piece reflecting not only an accomplishment but also the friendships, experiences, and adventures behind it.

Over the years, he shared many of his adventures with beloved German Shorthaired Pointers, each of whom held a special place in his heart. They were not just hunting dogs; they were family. Whether working a field, traveling across the country on a hunting trip, spending time at the lodge, or relaxing at home, his faithful companions were by his side. John took great pride in training them and enjoyed guiding hunters throughout the United States, creating friendships and memories that lasted a lifetime.

Some of his most treasured memories were made with family in Alaska, fishing on the Kenai River at the cabin he helped build alongside his good friend, Timothy Blank. Following retirement, winter trips to Hawaii and summer trips to Alaska became cherished traditions, along with many additional adventures shared with family and friends. His love of the outdoors, his adventurous spirit, and the countless stories that grew from those experiences became an enduring part of the legacy he leaves behind.

Nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with his grandchildren. He loved sharing stories, teaching life lessons, and creating memories that will last forever. Family adventures included trips to Alaska, Niagara Falls, amusement parks, and countless gatherings at the lodge in Erin, New York. Whether around a campfire, on a road trip, or sitting at the kitchen table, John was always ready with a story to share-often humorous, sometimes legendary, and always memorable.

Above all, John was a wonderful husband, a loving father, a proud Papa, and a loyal friend. He was steadfast in his support of those he loved and always willing to lend a helping hand. He will be remembered for his legendary sense of humor, boisterous laugh, adventurous spirit, and unforgettable stories. He will be dearly missed by a massive roster of family, friends, colleagues, and anyone who was ever dragged into one of his wild escapades. He taught those around him the importance of family, friendship, and embracing every opportunity that life presents.

Family and friends will gather for a celebration of John's life on August 8 at Ill Eagle Taphouse, 200 E. Church Street, Elmira, NY. Details will be announced when arrangements are finalized. All who knew and loved him are invited to join in honoring and celebrating his remarkable life.

John's life was measured not by the years he lived, but by the adventures he embraced, the stories he shared, and the people whose lives were better because they knew him.

Though he will be deeply missed, the memories he created and the lives he touched will ensure that his spirit lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Rest in peace, John. Your greatest adventure lives on through those who love you.