A memorial service celebrating the life of Ron White will be held at 11:00AM Saturday, January 4, 2014 at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Rochester, officiated by Dr. Rev. Charles Ortloff. Friends may call one hour prior to the service at the church.

Mr. White, age 77, a long-time Rochester educator died Friday, December 27, 2013 at Willows and Waters Senior Living facility in Rochester of complications from frontotemporal dementia.

Ronald Edward White was born March 9, 1936 in Grand Rapids, Minnesota to William and Laura (Hoshal) White, one of thirteen children. The family later moved to Minneapolis where Ron graduated from Washburn High School. While in high school he served as class president, captain of the football team and was voted "best all around". He attended Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa where he received a Bachelor of Arts in history with a minor in physical education. Later he received a master's degree from Winona State College and an educational specialist degree from University of Minnesota.

Ron taught at Winona High School from 1960 to 1962 and also coached wrestling and football. In the fall of 1962 he began his 36 year career at John Marshall High School teaching history and government in addition to coaching. He also taught in the alternative center (night school) at John Marshall for many years and retired in 1998. He was inducted into the Mayo Civic Center Region 1 Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2009. Ron had a genuine love for teaching and had the ability to connect with his students, making a difference in many of their lives.

He loved to dance, and was an avid walker. He loved the game of golf and enjoyed travelling. He also enjoyed dining out, especially at Michael's Restaurant. Most importantly, he loved spending time with family and friends.

Ron is survived by his wife Linda, one son, Brett (Brenda) White of Silverdale, WA;  two stepsons, Victor Villar and Joe (Conny) Villar, both of Rochester; four granddaughters, Nicole and Jordan White, Ashley and Hailey Villar and also one sister, Pearl Belland of Oakdale, MN and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents and eight brothers and three sisters. The family wishes to extend a sincere thank you to the staff of Willows and Waters Senior Living facility for the loving care they gave to Ron.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Salvation Army Caring Partners Adult Day Services. Online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com.