John William White, a truly gentle man, left us on Sunday, August 3, to go where gentlemen go when they leave our midst. Unlike the pond that rapidly fills after a stone is dropped, the void left by John will not quickly fill.
John leaves to mourn his loss a multitude of friends, but most of all, he leaves his beloved Solfrid, his wife to whom he was totally devoted. He was predeceased by his son, John. He is also survived by a cousin, Sidney H. Bradford and wife Mary of Nanaimo, and two nephews.
He will be deeply missed by his wife’s family, Karl and Edel Satermo, son and daughters.
Born in Waldo, B.C. January 6, 1920, he moved to Victoria with his family in 1934 and graduated from high school here. He then studied and became a Certified Accountant, later entering the lumber industry. At that time he became a member of the Royal Canadian Service Corps. Later, with rank of Lieutenant, he landed on the beaches of Normandy on D-Day as part of the 8th Infantry Brigade, Third Division. He retired after the war with the rank of captain.
John devoted many hours to helping the youth in Victoria with career choices, assisting them to find jobs.
Following retirement from the export lumber business, John and Solfrid did extensive traveling and boating. He then devoted his attention to Masonic activities as a member of Camosun Lodge #60. He became a member of Gizeh Shriners of B.C. and Yukon, serving on the executive for many years. He was president of Victoria Shrine Club in 1956.
Many thanks to his special caregiver Edna, and the staff on the fourth floor of James Bay Lodge. Also, Solfrid expresses her gratitude to Lyle Somers who visited John twice weekly during his stay at the lodge. And many thanks to a very good friend, Dick Melville.
Memorial Service to be held at MCCALL BROS. FLORAL CHAPEL, Johnson & Vancouver Streets on Saturday, August 16, 2008 at 2:00 pm. Flowers gratefully declined. Donations may be made in John’s name to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Shriner’s Hospital for Children.
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