WHITE, Michael

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You may have known him as Whitey, Mikey or Coach, but we knew him as our loving Dad and Papa.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Michael (Mike) White on Friday, October 2, 2026, surrounded by his loving family at St. Joseph’s Hospice.

Although the thought of life without him is painful for us all, we find comfort knowing that Dad is reunited with the love of his life, our Mom and Nana, Julie White (2022), and our beloved sister and Aunt, Melissa White Vandermeer (2023). We can imagine the hugs and kisses happening in Heaven right now.

In addition to being the world’s best Dad and Papa, Mike dedicated over 30 years of his career to Imperial Oil. He began his career working aboard the Imperial Great Lakes ships before eventually retiring as a Supervisor in the Shipping and Receiving department.

Mike loved being involved in sports and was a coach at heart. He coached both of his girls in SMAA Fastball and spent many years coaching Travel Hockey in Sarnia Township and Sarnia. He made a profound impact on the lives of the many boys he coached, and those relationships meant so much to him.

When he wasn’t coaching, Mike could often be found playing men’s two-pitch or out on the golf course—sometimes once, twice or even three times a week. He loved the game, but even more, he loved the friendships and time spent with the people he cared about.

Mike is survived by his daughter and number-one fan, Michelle (Scott Parks); his adoring grandchildren, Samantha and Nicholas Parks; his most special niece, who he loved as though she were his own, Robyn Dyck (Jason); his son-in-law Dan Vandermeer, who continued to show up for Dad, love him, care for him—and, of course, hang the Christmas lights; his sister Pat Neily; and his brother and sister-in-law Bill (Carol Pullen) and sister in law Sandy Pullen.

He will also be deeply missed by his many nieces and nephews, extended family and countless great friends who were fortunate enough to know and love him.

Mike was predeceased by his beloved wife, Julie; his daughter, Melissa; his parents, Nick and Dorothy and brother Peter and his wife Donna.

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Dr. John O’Mahony, who tried his damndest to figure out what was going on with Dad and never stopped trying to help him. We will always be grateful for his care, persistence and compassion. and to Dr. Kim and the incredible nurses and PSWs at St. Joseph’s Hospice for the exceptional care they provided to Dad—and to all of us—during his final days. Your compassion, kindness and support will never be forgotten.

A very special thank you to Shannon Roby, Michelle’s best friend, and Kerri Hill, Melissa’s best friend, for being there for us and surrounding Dad with so much love, comfort and help during this past week. You are both irreplaceable in our hearts and in our lives.

Dad was one of a kind. He was our coach, our protector, our biggest supporter, our storyteller, our friend—and, most importantly, our Dad and Papa.

He loved fiercely, showed up for the people he loved, and left an imprint on so many lives.

We will miss his laugh, his stories, his advice, his hugs and all the little things that made him Dad and Papa.

Until we meet again, Dad. ❤️

Family and friends will be received at SFH – McKenzie Blundy Chapel, 431 Christina St. N, Sarnia, on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Interment to follow at Lakeview Cemetery.

Sympathy may be expressed through donations to the charity of your choice (cheques only at the funeral home please). Arrangements entrusted to Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia.