Joseph White

Joseph A. White, 96, of Danville, passed away at 2:18 AM on Sunday, August 5, 2012 at Provena United Samaritans Medical Center in Danville. Joe White was born on January 14, 1916 in Danville, the son of Jim and Helen (Barnett) White. He married Joyce Dean on October 29, 1938 in Covington, IN. She survives. He is also survived by two sons: Joseph L. (Diane) White of Bloomington, IL, and David A. (Georgeann) White of Oceanside, CA. Joe had three grandchildren: Rev. Shelly (Blake) Wood of Cedar Falls, IA, Joan (Chris) Gjesfjeld of Grand Forks, ND, and Rachel (Matt) Stalter of Corvallis, OR. He also had seven great-grandchildren: Maclean, Madelyn, Jackson, Soren, Ingrid, Clara and Henry. Mr. White was preceded in death by his parents, his step-father, Loyed Webb, and one sister, June Baldwin. Joe White attended elementary schools in Danville and graduated from Covington High School, Covington, IN, in 1935. He worked as a railroad brakeman and conductor for 37 years, retiring in 1979. He and his wife, Joyce, enjoyed many retirement winters with friends in Destin, FL. He was a member of the Elks Lodge for many years, a member of the United Transportation Union for 70 years, the Harrison Park Golf Club, and St. James United Methodist Church. Joe enjoyed sports of all kinds. As a young man, he played basketball and softball. He played golf well into his 90s. He was a fan of local sports teams, the Fighting Illini and, especially, his beloved Cubs. He enjoyed singing, dancing and playing cards with friends. A celebration of Joe's life will be held on Friday, August 10, 2012, at 11:00 AM at Sunset Funeral Home in Danville with his grand-daughter, Rev. Shelly Wood, officiating. A visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Sunset Memorial Park in Danville. Memorials can be made in Joe's name in lieu of flowers to the St. James United Methodist Church Food Pantry. Please join Joe's family in sharing photos, videos, and memories through his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com