Mr. David Joseph White

(1930 – 2014) Loved beyond measure, our compassionate and loving husband, dad and gramps, the “other half” of a remarkable 57 year partnership with the love of his life and his best friend Doreen (nee Mason), has passed away. So very blessed & proud to be his family, grateful for his love & care that wrapped us all like a giant hug, are daughters Wendy, son-in-law Rob (Morrow), grandchildren Matthew and Amy; and daughter Sherri-Ann, son-in-law Ron (Laing), and grandson Tyler (McGuffin). The youngest of five, son to Irish parents William White & Josephine McIver, David grew up in a “loving boisterous” home on Highfield Road. He was a dear brother to Gertrude, Mary, and Gord, (pre-deceased) leaving behind oldest brother Alex White; and was also the most-loved son-in-law of James and Marie Mason. Dave was a true gentleman, always respectful and polite, with a kind and thoughtful nature. Throughout his life, he shouldered his responsibilities with strength and grace, looking after his family as no other. He had a sense of humour that invited you to share in the joy of life with him, and a genuine interest in people. Ever a “listener,” his wise counsel was often sought. He quietly provided us all with a daily example of how to live life through his belief in always “being mindful of the needs of others”. It is also true that “by giving, we receive” and Dave enjoyed his many friendships that resulted from his active contributions, often in a leadership role, to his communities of Denver Place, North Bendale, St. Ninian’s and St. Peter’s. Dave was a proud member of the Metropolitan Toronto Police for 35 years. He combined his gift of teaching with his affinity and love for riding motorcycles, and enjoyed many years of training for the force, before he moved to the CO Bick Police College, where he was also an Instructor. Following this career, Dave put his exceptional knowledge of the city to good use, when he had the honour and pleasure of driving for Chiefs Marks and McCormick, and working at the welcome desk of Police Headquarters – where he also valued his time and another opportunity to interact with many fine people. He loved his home, and with his soul-mate Doreen took great care of it (having an award-winning lawn). Together, they loved being with their family & friends, entertaining, travelling and sharing in the beauty and fun of their very special spot in Sarasota. He had a “big-picture” view of life, conversant and interested in many aspects; particularly sharing his love of sports with “his girls” and grandchildren, through both coaching and his proud fan support! In the last few months, during Dave’s illness, he was blessed to receive visits, cards, & calls from many of the special folks in his life. Enriching the lives of many, we will all miss his warm smile, his deep chuckle and his loving care. We will celebrate Dave’s well-lived life at a memorial service, at St. Peter’s Anglican Church, 776 Brimley Rd, on Feb 1st at 1:00 pm. (Visitation from noon – 1:00 pm, and reception to follow at the church). For those wishing to do so, in lieu of flowers, a contribution in his honour may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, the Salvation Army, or a charity of your choice. With Gratitude and Sincere Appreciation Our Dave was a very special fellow to our family. During his illness this fall, we were touched to realize that many others felt this way too. The out-pouring of affection and tributes through calls, cards, visits – along with the most thoughtful soups, meals and sweets, was the silver lining in our darkest cloud. To our dearest neighbours of Denver Place and North Bendale, our good friends of St.Peter’s and St. Ninian’s, the “Sarasota” folks, & Dave’s colleagues and other family and friends from both far and near – please know how much this meant to Dave and his family. Your care and support, along with the warmth of palliative care nurses Dean & Ruby, support staff Mechelle and Evelyn, laughter from Rev. Jeannie, and Robert, our Christmas generator angel helped us to allow Dave to enjoy his beloved home and neighbourhood – there are really no words to thank you for this gift. Doreen White & Family

Mr. David Joseph White

January 18, 2014