Our People: Retiree 'humbled, honored,' by award

Elwyn Crume was born in Kenna in 1931. He graduated from Texas Tech with a degree in mathematics in August 1951. He graduated from Los Angeles College of Optometry in 1954 and served in the USAF Reserves for over 20 years, retiring as Lt. Colonel. He practiced optometry for 53 years.

On Sept. 15, Crume was honored for his lifetime achievements and outstanding and altruistic service to his community and country. He was presented with a proclamation

Courtesy photo

Elwyn Crume, poses with his wife, Patricia, on a trip to Alaska in 2007, was honored for his lifetime achievements and service and awarded a key to the city in September.

declaring Sept. 16 as Doctor Elwyn Crume Day and additionally awarded a key to the city by the mayor.

He has been married to Patricia Crume for 62 years and is a member of First United Methodist Church, a men's Bible class and Masonic and Elks lodges. He is the past president of the Clovis Curry County Chamber of Commerce, Clovis Rotary Club and the New Mexico Optometry Association. He enjoys hunting, fishing, flying and golf.

How did it feel to be awarded a "key to the city" for your lifetime achievement this year?

Humbled and honored.

Tell us about your greatest individual accomplishment.

It was receiving a private pilot license and eventually achieving an instrument rating.

Tell us how you met your spouse.

We met on a blind date in Lubbock while I was attending Texas Tech.

Tell us a story about your childhood.

When I was five years old, I rode my horse, "Flapper," delivering the Clovis newspaper to the residents of Kenna.

If you could master one instrument, what would it be?

The piano.

Where is your favorite place to travel?

Hawaii. I have traveled there five times.

What place would you like to travel to and why?

I would like to take a rail trip across Canada to see the beauty.

— Compiled by Correspondent D'Nieka Hartsfield