Kenneth Gerard White

It is with profound sadness and deep gratitude for a life well lived that the family of Kenneth White of Placentia Bay announce his passing on February 21st at the age of 75, at St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital. Ken was pre-deceased by his beloved wife of 22 years, Barbara Carey, his parents; Douglas and Elizabeth White and his sister, Helen Ennis-LeDrew. We can only imagine the lively reunion that awaited him.

Left to mourn are his children; Jennifer Nilsson (Steve) and Brian White, stepchildren: Paul, Lynette, Greg (Robyn) and Trevor (Connie) Carey, his many treasured grandchildren, whom he loved beyond measure: Bianca & Cooper Nilsson; Andrew & Jarrett Carey; Sophia, Courtney & Erica White; William Carey and Jasmine, Claire & Madison Carey. Being “Poppy” was one of the roles he wore most proudly.

He also leaves behind his brothers: Bruce, Eugene (Betty), Paul, Doug (Darlene) and David (Maureen), sisters; Rose Barron (Freeman) and Shirley Dreaddy Rimiller (Thad). His wonderful in-laws: Doris Butler, Alex Keating (Margie), Robert Keating (Juanita), Judy Ellis (Perry), Marion Page (Ken) and Sharon Keating (Noel), along with many nieces and nephews, will miss his stories and his steady presence. In truth, anyone who ever met Ken likely has a story about him.

Born on Red Island in Placentia Bay, Ken began his working life on the sea. After surviving a shipwreck on Christmas Eve, he decided perhaps solid ground had its advantages and went on to earn his Red Seal as a Journeyman Electrician. That career carried him across the country: from Iqaluit in the North, to Ottawa and Montreal, across the Prairies and Western provinces and throughout the Maritimes and Newfoundland and Labrador. Ken didn’t just travel; he collected friends everywhere he went.

Though he never said it outright, Ken lived by the belief that there was no such thing as a stranger, only a friend he hadn’t yet met. He was quick with a smile, quicker with a wisecrack, and happiest when surrounded by people. He was the kind of man who would fix your wiring, help you move, drive you to the airport at 4:00 am and still insist it was “no trouble at all.” He thought nothing of driving across the country (and often did) and loved a good road trip almost as much as he loved telling the story about it afterward.

Settling in Witless Bay in 2010, Ken quickly became part of the fabric of the community. As a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, he spent countless hours volunteering his time and talents to support community food drives, the Annual Seniors Christmas party, community breakfasts, coordinating food hampers and organizing fundraisers to support the needs of the community. He was a regular supporter of The Gathering Place, always ready to lend his time where it was needed. Ken was an active member of the 50+ Club where he thoroughly enjoyed the friendships and camaraderie, especially his Friday night dart group.

Ken will be remembered for his generosity, his steady reliability, his love of adventure, and his unmistakable sense of humour. Even in his final days, he was telling stories and cracking jokes with the health care team at St. Clare’s, determined, as always, to leave people smiling. Laughter followed Ken wherever he went, and it stayed right to the end. He lived a life rich in family, friendship, and good humour; a life measured not just in years, but in miles driven, hands helped, and stories told. Ken will be dearly missed by the many family and friends that were fortunate enough to know him.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the health care team on 7 East and in the ICU at St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital. Your care and kindness meant more than words can express.

At Ken’s request, cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held at Ryan’s Funeral Home, Bay Bulls on Tuesday, February 24th from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Kevin’s Catholic Parish, Goulds on Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at 10:00 am with a reception to follow at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Witless Bay, all are welcome.

For those unable to attend, the service will be livestreamed with the link available below.

Celebration of Life and Interment to be held in Placentia Bay in Summer, 2026. Details to be announced at a later date.

If friends so desire, donations in Ken’s memory may be made to the Gathering Place.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Kenneth Gerard White, please visit our Tree Store.