Joseph Charles Blum, age 77, of Middletown, DE, died peacefully at home on Saturday, July 18, 2020 after a brave battle with cancer.

Joe was born in Baltimore, MD.  He was a graduate of Loyola High School and Loyola College.  He joined the US Army and ascended to the rank of Captain, serving as an instructor in the helicopter flight school at Fort Wolters, TX.  After leaving military life, Joe launched his career at Sears Roebuck, where he worked for 25 years.  He was then hired at Bank One, eventually leaving to start his own business in the credit/collections field.  Once retired, Joe became active in several local philanthropic organizations, including Lower Cecil County Senior Citizens and St. Joseph Parish.  He enjoyed playing shuffleboard, boating, crabbing, fishing and cheering for the Baltimore Orioles.

Joe will be missed by so many.  He had a huge personality and was truly larger than life.  When he walked into a room, everyone noticed.  He had a big heart and an even bigger smile.  When he wasn't making people laugh, he spent much of his time helping others.

Above all, Joe loved his family.  He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years Joanne Novotny Blum of Middletown, DE; his children Chris Blum (Denise) of Warwick, MD, Craig Blum (Jennifer) of Northfield, NJ, Cary Blum (Erin) of Elkton, MD; his sister Pat Marchesiello (Richard) of Ocean Pines, MD; his grandchildren Chase, Cassidy, Evan, Brady, Jake, Luke and Cole; as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his daughter Cheri Blum of Georgetown, MD and his parents Joseph and Bernadine Blum of Baltimore, MD.

Services for Joe will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Saint Mark's High School. Please note on the memo line:  Cheri Blum Memorial Scholarship.  2501 Pike Creek Road, Wilmington, DE 19808.

Arrangements by Galena Funeral Home of Stephen L. Schaech