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James William White

October 2, 1932 - October 4, 2023

Our hearts are heavy as we say goodbye to a remarkable man. Jimmy left us peacefully on a beautiful October day, the last of 11 siblings. He filled our lives with laughter, love, and an unwavering dedication to family. A loving husband, Jimmy adored his “sweetie” wife Rita, and their marriage is a testament to unconditional love. Their 68 years together left an unforgettable mark on all those who witnessed their love story.

For 35 years, Jim dedicated his professional life to the Sun Canadian Pipeline. He was a chairman with the SMAA and for 50 years, volunteered his time to The International Silver Stick Hockey Association where he was named an Honorary Life Member. Jim made invaluable contributions within the realm of Canadian hockey. His passion for the sport was undeniable and his leadership will be remembered for generations to come.

Jimmy was the ultimate joker, a toastmaster, quick-witted, and always ready to bring a smile to those around him. If you knew him, you knew his handshake, his kisses, and his love for sweets and naps. He had a heart that knew no bounds, always there to support and uplift friends and family through the ups and downs of life.

Most notably, Jim/Jimmy/Dad/Papa’s most beautiful legacy lies in his role as a family man. He provided unwavering love, guidance, and support, nurturing a family bond that will echo and stay resilient through the years to come.

Jim is survived by his loving wife Rita; and his children Mike (Martha), Dave (Jen), Karen (John), Steve (Nada), and Lisa (Vince). He will be greatly missed by his grandchildren, Jessica (Ryan), Jaclyn (Garrett), Jamie (Lesley), Caroline (Phil), Lyara (Curtis), James; and great-grandchildren Oliver and Maeva. In lieu of flowers, the family requests to send in a story you have of Jimmy.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 11, 2023 from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. at Westview Funeral Chapel, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, and continuing on Thursday, October 12, 2023 from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. A celebration of life will follow at 11:00 a.m. We will honour the beautiful tapestry of memories he leaves behind.

“Bless ya, bless ya” Jimmy.

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Our deepest condolences to Rita and family. Jim always had an infectious smile and was always so eager to catch up with us! He was most certainly a big part of the Winmar Family and he will be missed greatly. Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time.

~ Kim Graveson & Kurt Kumm

Our deepest sympathy and condolences to Aunt Rita, Mike, David, Karen, Steve and Lisa and family. Jim was a one of a kind and great inspiration and mentor to all who knew him growing up. He was kind and generous with his time and always quick with a witty joke or word of encouragement. Jim was the last surviving sibling of his family and he and all of them will be truly missed. I am certain there is a euchre game happening somewhere with lots of toasts and laughs all around to welcome him home. Rest in peace Uncle Jim and…bless ya!

~ Andy and Mary White and Family

Dear Rita, Steve, Lisa and to all the rest of your beautiful family, Loree and I are extremely saddened to hear of Jim's passing. 'Jiminy' was as genuine as they come. Top knotch in every way. Understanding, wise and guiding. He will be missed but remembered by many for a long time to come.

~ Ron (Digger) and Loree Font

Rita and family, We were saddened to hear of Jim's passing. I was hired at SCPL in 1982 in Sarnia by Jim and he was a great boss until his retirement in 1994. Melanie and I have great memories of the fun times spent together at SCPL functions and rehashing the evenings festivities over breakfast the next morning at Clappisons Corners Motel. Those were fun times! His warmth and humour will be missed. We are thinking of you Rita and family and sending our deepest sympathies. Rob and Melanie Steele

~ Rob and Melanie Steele

What a wonderful man Jim was! So full of laughter and so welcoming and friendly to everyone. Bob and I remember Christmas Eve 30 years ago when John and Karen lived down the street from us. There was a knock on the door and the whole White family poured in bringing their good cheer and libations with them! Jim and Rita definitely set the standard for how families should celebrate! Bob’s mom and sister were with us that year and pretty amazed by this group of people joining us. And Bob remembers spending a week in Florida with Jim and Rita at their condo where he unofficially became their “adopted” son. Covid meant we didn’t see much of the senior White’s in the last couple of years but we will always have good memories of Jim. Our deepest condolences for you loss.

~ Bob and Cathie Gauthier

Rita and family, our deepest condolences on the loss of a very special man. We remember fondly, the Super Bowl parties when Jim would welcome us as friends, Always kind and interested in how we had been since we last met. Find comfort in the memories of this wonderful man who left an indelible mark on so many.

~ Fabian and Sandi

Jim was a great guy I golfed with him and visited on Jim and Rita’s porch Many fond memories of beach life

~ Barry and Carol Reid

My condolences to Aunt Rita and all the family. I wish you strength and comfort in this sad and difficult time. I still hold fond memories of Uncle Jim at family gatherings from my youth. He was the kind of person who really engaged in a conversation with you, looked you in the eye and called you by your name - this is the kind of thing that made an impression on me as a young boy and I recognize now is the mark of a genuine and caring person. Bless him. Rob White

~ Robert White

As Jim and Rita’s newest neighbors we had only met last year. Right away we were welcomed and we knew we had met someone special. We will miss Jim’s zest for life and his wit We were honored to have met Jim Our deepest condolences to Rita And the family so sorry for your loss as well as his may friends and Ipperwash neighbors. Cheers Jimmy! Joe and Nicole

~ Joe Orendorff and Nicole Murray


Our sincere condolences to The White Family. PCB and Jimmy and Rita just fit together. So many fun times us women had in PCB and never a complaint for Jimmy. Always welcoming with a big hug and good chats while watching the golf . Many laughs and many memories. Loved him to bits! He will certainly be missed by all who knew him. Bless ya Bless ya Jimmy.

~ Pauline & Craig Davidson

Rita and family, we were saddened to hear of the passing of Jim. It was always a pleasure to see both of you at the many Silver Stick opening cerimonies. On behalf of the Mooretown Silver Stick family, please accept our condolences on the passing of Jim. He will be missed. You are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Rick Harris

~ Rick Harris

Jim was the kind of person when you met him you felt he’d always been a friend. I don’t have the wonderful stories shared by family and friends on here but I live with a warmth that he always brought to life and a sadness that such a lovely man is no longer here. A world filled with people like him would be fun, peaceful and kind. May that live on in all who knew him. Heaven just got a little more fun loving at our expense. R.I.P.

~ Gregor Reid


We just celebrated Canadas' Thanksgiving weekend. The week didn't start out on a very high note. We celebrated our friends 91st birthday with a surprise visit with a few neighbours, taking along cup cakes and our drinks. Jim and Rita White have been stalwarts of the neighbourhood for many years, and have been very good friends of Angie and I, since moving here 25 years ago. Without counting I would say that we had them for dinner and cards about 4 times a month and every visit was a bright spot in our life. Jim and Rita always were ready to come over for a meal, and ate every morsel without a complaint. Then they would proceed to kick our asses at cards and then take our money home with them. The only exception to this was when we played euchre, the boys against the girls, and Jimmy would be very happy to kick their asses and then we would have desert and bid them adieu. Have to say, Rita would not be that elated. If you are reading this, you are saying there has to be a 'but'? Life can be a hair trigger. You can be here one minute, enjoying life and celebrating your good fortune of having a great family and good friends, and then the next minute it can be all over. Our good friend Jimmy was out cleaning fallen branches off of his lawn and putting them in his truck to take over to the recycle in Forest. Rita was going with him. Then it was all over. In an instant. We/me, will truly miss the great man and will forever remember his friendship. Bless Ya! Bless Ya!

~ TOM & ANGIE

Rita and family we were very sorry to hear of Jim’s passing he and I were fellow workers over many years he was always helpful with the many tasks that we were handed to do on a daily basis and made the day pass quickly with his expressions and funny quips . Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time R. I . P . Jim George & Shirley Moore

~ George Moore

Rita, thinking of you at this time, and sending our deepest condolences to you and your entire family on the loss of Jim. Jim enjoyed life to the fullest and gave so much of his time to others. He was so kind and friendly to all he met. The times at your cottage were always great fun. Jim will be deeply missed and remembered by all those he touched.

~ Tino and Stephany Pittaro

Deepest Condolences on behalf of the Pembroke Regional Silver Stick Committee to Rita and all of the family. Always enjoyed chatting with and seeing you both at the International meetings. He was an integral part of our Silver Stick community and will be truly missed.

~ Norbert and Brenda Chaput

Rita: Kathy and I are saddened to learn of Jim's passing and our sincerest condolences to you and your family. Jim was not only our contact for pipeline operations between SCPL and Petrosar but also a treasured personal family friend. Over the years we had the pleasure of yours and Jim's company at family celebrations and the lunches where we got caught up on family news plus stories of days gone by. Some of those remembrances included a time when Jim was the sports reporter for the Aylmer Ontario newspaper, his job with CN Rail and our mutual connections in London. Jim was an accomplished athlete which he demonstrated for me on the golf course. The game was followed by some 'refreshment' and a rehash of missed putts. Silver Stick was his passion and if they have a Hall of Fame Jim deserves to be a member. Thank you Jim White for the wonderful memories.

~ Ross and Kathy Fuller

Our deepest condolences to Aunt Rita and the entire White family. Uncle Jim has always been a favourite uncle, and no family gathering was complete without his presence. Jim could always be counted on for his marvellous sense of humour and his ability to make everyone feel welcome. He never failed to offer kind words of encouragement to all he encountered and was generous in imparting his invaluable knowledge, insights and advice. Rest in peace, Uncle Jim. You will truly be missed.

~ Tom & Nina White

Jim was a loyal supporter of Watford Silverstick ever since he found ice time in Sarnia for us 50 years ago when a snowstorm put our tournament badly behind. Jim and Rita never missed our opening ceremonies and he always came to Watford with his positive attitude,wisdom and infectious laugh. I loved listening in on Jim and Roy Caley swap stories in our silverstick “back room” after the opening. Our committee always knew Jim and Rita had our back when they served as co executive directors of International Silverstick for many years. Jim will be truly missed.

~ Stephen Beattie

Jimmy was a very special man, he had a heart of gold. I remember sitting with him during The Masters when Mike Weir won his green jacket. Jimmy was so proud of the local celebrity. During our Florida visits lots of euchre was to be had, along with bologna sandwiches. Jimmy was always a pleasure to be with, his kindness and jovial personality will be missed. Love you Jimmy.

~ Patti & Les Horwath

Love forever to a wonderful raconteur and great wit. He will be missed always after a life well lived.

~ Jeanette Bernardo

What can be said of Jim but what a story teller and always had a big smile which would light up the room. I was fortunate to meet Jim a few times over the years in Panama City Beach and had the pleasure of playing golf with him and he gave the longest give me’s I’ve ever seen. Sending our condolences to Rita and entire White family. RIP- Jim

~ David Carson

Rita: Jim was a one of a kind guy

~ Dave Baron (Co-worker)

To my dear friends from my extended WINMAR family, My sincerest condolences on the passing of such a wonderful man. Just the mention of his name, or the duo "Jim and Rit", always brought a smile to my face. My favourite memory. Being in the parking lot of the small building next to the office in London. Seeing the motorhome come around the curve on Stronach. Karen was driving. Rita was in the front passenger seat. Karen slowed the motorhome down to chat. I made a joke about the two girls being on one heck of a road trip with a motorhome to travel in. All of a sudden, out pops Jim's head from between the seats. Cup in hand. And the biggest grin on his face. He made a comment about having two chauffeurs at his disposal. He looked like a kid at Christmas. May you continue to heal through laughter, tears and joys of the many Jim stories your family will be sharing for years to come. I imagine the "remember when's...." will be endless. Hugs to you all, Lynda Ford

~ Lynda Ford

Rita: I am very saddened to hear of Jim's passing, Silver Stick was many of the fond memories we had together and, will not be forgotten. Please accept my condolences at this time.

~ Paul Augustine

Jim was a one-of-a-kind guy. He was passionate in supporting his fellow employees and in operating Sarnia Station in a professional and efficient manner. He was the voice of Sun-Canadian in Sarnia and did an excellent job of representing us in the Chemical Valley. I had the pleasure of working with Jim for many years and could always count on him to fulfill his many and varied responsibilities. He was a valued member of our leadership team. Sandra and I extend our deepest sympathies to Rita and the White family. We are currently in Europe and, unfortunately, will not return home in time to attend Jim’s funeral.

~ Ralph & Sandra Cowell

To Lisa, Steve, Rita and Family. My deepest sympathy to your family. Jim always had a bright smile and a friendly wave everytime we'd walk to the beach. Will definitely miss him. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Take time to share your memories with each other during this sad time.

~ Bonnie Kershaw

Rita and family, On behalf of the Forest Silver Stick committee and many volunteers we would like to pass on our condolences. Very sad to hear of Jim's passing. It was always a pleasure to see both of you at Forest Silver Stick over the years. I will always recall Jim's passion for Silver Stick hockey and what Silver Stick stood for. Jim exemplified the Silver Stick motto "Citizenship and International Goodwill through Silver Stick Hockey". He will be missed.

~ Dave and Karen Vanos

Rita and entire family, Our hearts are heavy as we hear of Jim's passing. Please know that you are all in our thoughts. We lost a great man. "Death leaves a heartache nothing can heal. Love leaves a memory no one can steal." All your friends at the Earle Trevail Memorial U18 Petrolia Regional Silver Stick

~ Nick Salaris

Our deepest condolences Rita and to the rest of your family. I started my career at SCPL with Jim. He was a true mentor. He will be truly missed for all he was and to his endless contributions within the community. RIP Jim

~ Ted and Sandy Eager

This is not a story of what Jim did, but a story of what he will go on doing. He will continue to lift us up, demand better from ourselves and expect the best in others. Like the best of teachers, we learned from Jim not only through his example but in the faith he had in each of us who knew him. Through Jim's eyes we saw a better version of ourselves. Those things did not die with Jim. The world will continue to be a better place, we will continue to be better people because of the time he spent with us.

~ Steve Ryan

Remembering a really nice man, family was first. Jim touched and made a difference in many people's lives. To Rita and the entire White family our heartfelt condolences. RIP Jim.

~ Randy and Bev Gartley

Services for James William White

Visitation will be held at:
Westview Funeral Chapel
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario

October 11, 2023 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Visitation will be held at:
Westview Funeral Chapel
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario

October 12, 2023 10:00 am to 11:00 am

Celebration of Life will be held at:
Westview Funeral Chapel
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario

October 12, 2023 11:00 am