Olean, N.Y., June 5 – The recently established Bud and Marion Boorom Fund at the Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation will serve as a testament to the deceased couple’s unwavering love and devotion to animals throughout their lives.

This fund, established through the Blackhawk Trust, will provide resources to benefit the enhancement of the lives of animals at the SPCA while they await adoption into their forever homes.

Darwin O. “Bud” and Marion’s journey together began in 1947, a union of many years marked by love and a shared passion for animals.

Bud’s valor during World War II as a member of the esteemed Blackhawk infantry division, where he earned the Purple Heart and Bronze Star, exemplified his courage and dedication to service. Meanwhile, Marion’s steadfast support as she worked for the New York Telephone Company reflected her strength and resilience.

Settling in Buffalo, NY, they built a life centered around family and their beloved pets. Bud’s career path, from his service as a master diver for the Erie County Sheriff’s Dept to his tenure in the animal pharmaceutical division with S Kellogg and Shearing (ASL), showcased his evolving dedication to animal welfare. Marion, too, contributed her talents and love for working with people at the Olean General Hospital until her retirement, all while nurturing their cherished Yorkie, Pebbles.

Tragically, Marion’s passing in 2015 marked a profound loss for Bud, yet it ignited a new purpose in his life – caring for Pebbles with the same tenderness and devotion Marion had shown. Pebbles became his constant companion, his “reason for getting up in the morning” each and every day. 

Bud spent a lot of time witnessing the transformative work of the SPCA. He recognized the vital role they played in providing the love and care to get the animals in their forever homes.

In honor of Marion’s memory and inspired by his own experiences, Bud ensured the

Darwin O “Bud” and Marion Boorum Fund was established to carry on their legacy of commitment for the care of animals.

“We are honored to preserve the memory of Bud and Marion through this fund,” said CRCF executive director Kirk Windus. “This fund will help enhance the care and protection of animals in our community while they await adoption into loving homes.”

Donations can be made to the Bud and Marion Boorom Fund at the Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation, 301 North Union St., Suite 203, Olean, NY 14760 or online at cattfoundation.org.

The Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation is the area’s supportive, responsive and trusted community foundation. Established in 1994, CRCF is growing good by connecting donors to the causes they care about most in the region. Grants from the foundation support many areas, including education, scholarships, health care, the arts, community development, human service, and youth development. To learn more, call (716) 301-CRCF (2723), email foundation@cattfoundation.org, or visit online at www.cattfoundation.org. CRCF is also on Facebook (facebook.com/cattfoundation) and Twitter (@CattFoundation).