Donald Joseph White

Donald Joseph White, 84, of Hanover, Michigan, passed away on April 15, 2024. He was born on December 27, 1939, at Henry County Hospital in New Castle, Indiana, to Joseph Newsom White and Marian Phyllis Goldsberry. Don's passion for the outdoors led him to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Forestry from Purdue University. His love for nature and dedication to excellence defined his professional life, resulting in a long and fulfilling career as a forester for Consumers Energy, from which he retired. He also served as President of the Michigan Park and Forestry Association.

A respected Boy Scout leader and Silver Beaver Award recipient, Don devoted much of his life to sharing his love for the outdoors with others. He enjoyed exploring Ontario's streams and fishing, sharing canoe trips to Kathleen Lake with many. His enthusiasm for wood carving was evident in the many carvings he gifted to family and friends. Don also cherished his time running the Hanover maple sugar shack, a tradition passed down from his family farm in Indiana. He shared his passion for maple sugaring with loved ones and his community.

Don was a devoted husband to his wife, Mary White, and a loving father to his children, Leigh White (Ed Busch) and Joe White (Ginger White). He cherished his role as a grandfather to Kyle White (Katerina Hammond), Emma Busch, Sophie Busch, and Justin White. He is also survived by his brother, Louis White, and numerous other relatives and friends who will remember him for his kind heart, wisdom, and the joy he brought to those around him.

Don's life will be celebrated with a memorial service at Watson Funeral Chapel in Jackson on Friday April 19, 2024, at 11 am, with visitation from 10-11am. At 12:30 there will be a light luncheon at the Heritage Park Community Center in Hanover—all are welcome. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Don's memory to the Unity Horton Habitat for Humanity Build or Hanover-Horton Historical Society. Don will be deeply missed by all who knew him. May his spirit find peace in the forest he cherished so dearly.

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