With family and friends by his side, Peter (Pete/Grandpa Pete) Kirk White passed away on October 10th, 2024, at the Dryden Regional Health Centre at the age of 81.
Pete is remembered by his loving and long-time partner, Judy Russell, his brothers Richard White (Carol) of St. Thomas, ON & Robert White of Dryden, ON. His children Kristin White (Gus Iverson) and David White (Suzanne Langlois) and his grandchildren Kay Rasmussen (Jeff), Dylan Shumka-White (Keric Funk), Matilda White, and Grace White. Pete was also the proud great-grandfather of Elora, Fynn, and Sage Rasmussen. Pete cherished his many nieces and nephews, including Jack McMaster (Jeanie), Anne Schan (Al) Erin Mintenko (Alex), Rick White, Roger White, Geoff White and Laurie Carter. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Donny Orchuck and Dick (Gloria) Lewis for supporting Pete during his battle with cancer and standing by him in his final days. And Trish Krolyk and Barry Kingston for all the help, support and visits. You all meant the world to him. Pete is predeceased by his parents Vera Madeline White and James George White, brothers James White (Barb) & Frank White (Marg), and sister Vera McMaster (Harry) and his close friend Dr. Ron Dabbs.
Born in Wabigoon, ON, on February 28th, 1943, Pete spent his early years growing up in Dryden, ON. His life was filled with exciting adventures and many rich chapters. In his younger days, he farmed tobacco, enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, and travelled across the United States, forming lifelong friendships. After becoming a father, Pete embarked on a career with the Ontario Provincial Police. He eventually transitioned to sales management, which led him and his family to live in many places across the country, making friends and memories everywhere they went. He still kept in touch with his Timberjack “family” and enjoyed his phone calls and visits with Lorne Mcdonald of Thunder Bay.
In 1968, Pete purchased the ‘homestead’ on Linklater Lake, a place that became the heart of his life. Until his final days, Pete could be found there, dragging the road, felling trees, stacking wood, or hunting and fishing. His warm hospitality was legendary—family and friends were always greeted with a hearty, “Come on in! Want a beer?” Pete was also an incredible storyteller, a passionate singer, infamous giver of nicknames, and an air guitarist extraordinaire, bringing joy and laughter to those around him.
In accordance with Pete’s wishes, a celebration of life will be held in the summer of 2025 at Linklater Lake. The family is grateful to everyone who has reached out to share stories and memories. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Kenora Cat Shelter, where Pete found his beloved cat, Jennings, would be greatly appreciated. A special thanks goes out to Lisa & Lauren at the Dryden Hospital for their compassion and caring in Pete’s last hours. It’s never “goodbye” Dad, it’s just “see ya later”.
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