Warren Family Man Hit And Killed By Train

WARREN, NJ — Paul Strum, a retired teacher and a father of two daughters, was fatally hit by a NJ Transit train early Friday morning.

Sturm, 62, was hit by a Morris & Essex train at 2:15 a.m. on Friday at Convent Station in Morris Township, NJ Transit spokesman Jim Smith said.

Sturm was a music teacher for 20 years at the South Plainfield Middle School before retiring.

"Paul played large part in our South Plainfield Music Department family for many years. Even after he retired, he'd still check in on us from time to time. He will be remembered and missed by us all," said one mourner.

"My deepest condolences. I worked with Paul for two years in South Plainfield. He was fun-loving and kind. May he rest in peace," said another mourner.

He was known for his love of music and playing the trumpet and piano locally. He was also a member of the American Federation of Musicians, Union Local 16-248 which covers Northern and Central New Jersey, according to his obituary posted by Kowalski Funeral Home.

He also loved sports and rooted for both the New York Yankees and the New York Mets.

Sturm left behind his wife of 30 years, Nancy M. Bodek Sturm and two daughters, Julia Reydel and her husband, James and Carolyn Sturm.

He is also survived by his three sisters, Ellen Albright, Katie Sturm and Martha Sturm and several nieces and nephews.

The funeral and cremation services are private.

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