William “Willie” White Jr., 58, of Dowagiac, passed away at his home on Friday, Sept. 4, 2009.

Willie’s life began on March 21, 1951, in Blytheville, Ark., son of William White and Lessie (Mathison) White-Williams.

He was a 1969 graduate of Dowagiac Union High School, where he excelled as an athlete.

Willie still holds the school record in the 100-yard dash and he was a state track and field champion.

He worked for the State of Michigan Department of Highways for several years and for Waste Management as a driver.

He was united in marriage to the former Marian Wise on May 17, 1975, in Benton Harbor.

Willie’s family includes: his wife, Marian White of Dowagiac; daughter, Lisa White of Lancaster, Pa.; son, William James “Jamie” (Catherine) White of Dowagiac; and his sister, Georgia (Iza) Roberts of Dowagiac.

Willie is preceded in death by his parents.

His family will gather with friends on Thursday from noon to 2 p.m. at McLauchlin-Clark Funeral Home, where his funeral service will take place at 2 p.m. Thursday led by Pastor Alvin Smith of Macedonia Church.

Willie will be laid to rest in Riverside Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in his name may be directed to the family in care of Marian.
Please sign his guestbook and leave a memory of Willie at www.mclauchlin-clark.com.