Thomas G. (Chuck) White

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Chuck White, 98, died at the Missouri Veterans Home in Mexico, from COVID-19. Burial was private at Columbia Cemetery. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

Chuck was born in Sulphur, Oklahoma to Eugene and Doris (Ward) White, joining older brothers Eugene and Charles and his beloved grandmother “Georgie”. Music played a tremendous role in their family and could often be heard from morning till bedtime. He enjoyed singing and playing the cornet, and had a lifelong love of classical music, and later in life thoroughly enjoyed Dixieland jazz and ragtime.

He was also quite the athlete, playing baseball, handball, wrestling (undefeated through 4 years of high school), swimming, sailing, and tennis.

After graduating from Sulphur High School, he attended Oklahoma University where he joined the ROTC, completing two years before going to Fort Sill for basic training. The Army then sent him to Stanford University for advanced technical training in infectious diseases, sparking his love of medical research. Upon his discharge, he returned to O.U for his bachelor of science, Harvard for his master of science, and University of Minnesota for his Ph.D.

He married Nancy Dobyns on March 1, 1946 and was married for 57 years until her death in 2003. Their one and only daughter Melinda was born on June 25, 1961.

Chuck was a research scientist in immunochemistry and truly loved his profession. He was lucky enough to oversee and head up many governmental agencies throughout the United States, including at the NHI and VA – ending his career as head of the VA Lab in Kansas City.

In 2006, he married Marlene Owen, and immediately became an adored member of a large extended family. He loved being with family, and especially becoming a grandfather at this late stage of his life.

Chuck and Marlene found First Baptist Church at this time, and they were so grateful for all the many friends they got to know there.

Chuck is survived by his wife Marlene, daughter Melinda, step-daughters: Michelle Simpson and Marsha (Mike) Davisson, step son Joe Timmerman, beloved grandchildren: Drew and Lila Davisson, nieces, nephews, and many dear in-laws and friends.

Chuck was a gentle and generous friend to so many over his lifetime and a truly wonderful human being. He and Marlene are so grateful for all of the help and love and care he received at the Veterans Home these last few years, especially his wonderful Brittney.

Boomer Sooner, Chuck. Rest in Peace.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service and Crematory; 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, Missouri, 65203; (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.ParkerMillard.com.


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