Gene R. White's Obituary
Big Rapids - Gene R. White, 81, of Big Rapids passed away on Thursday, April 3, 2014. He was born on April 30, 1932 in Gaines, Michigan, the son of James C. and Marion E. (Smith) White. Gene served in the United States Air Force, Korean Theater. Upon returning from service, he attended and graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering. Gene married Wilma M. Gage in 1954. Following graduation from MSU, he began a marvelous career with Deere and Company. Gene traveled the world, opening new markets and doing everything from setup to training. Gene was a member of the Big Rapids First United Methodist Church, the Big Rapids Lions Club, the Boy Scouts of America, the DAV, the local "Greasy Fingers" and the National Two Cylinder Club. He and Wilma were involved with many local organizations and activities. Gene is survived by one daughter, Nancy (Richard) Janoski of Rock Island, IL; two sons, Lee (Carol) White of Rochelle, IL and Carl (Lynn) White of Moline, IL; seven grandchildren, Alex and Nick Janoski, Stuart (Stephanie) and Kyle White, Ian, Evan, and Jennie White. Gene's first great-grandson will be born in May. Also surviving are three sisters, Lorraine Murphy, Sue Robar, and Celia Kelly; one brother, John White; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Nita and Emery Bennett; plus several nieces and nephews. Gene was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Wilma; one son, David James White; two sisters, Ellen Jo Cavanaugh and Janet Watkins; and one brother, James M. White. In recent years as Gene's health declined, he had great support of several friends and local family. Funeral services for Gene will be at 11:00 am Tuesday, April 8, 2014 at the Big Rapids First United Methodist Church with Pastor Rebecca Morrison officiating. Visitation will be Monday, April 7, 2014 from 4:00-7:00 pm at the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Burial will be at Hungerford Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Big Rapids First United Methodist Church or the DAV.
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