Robert Jennings White, Sr.

Robert Jennings White, Sr., 87, of Gilson, died peacefully on Sunday, February 1, 2015 at the Care Center of Abingdon.

Bob was born February 23, 1927 in Canton, MO, the son of Virgil Raymond and Bessie Rowena Daniel White.  He married Virginia Louise Pierce on February 5, 1952 in Nebraska.  She preceded him in death on August 16, 2012.  Bob is survived by one daughter, Laurel Nielsen of Apache Junction, AZ; one sister, Betty LaBonne of Galena; one granddaughter, Jennifer Dawson of Apache Junction, AZ; and one great granddaughter, Kendra Dawson of Apache Junction, AZ.  Bob was preceded in death by his wife; a son, Robert J. “Butch” White, Jr. on November 27, 2014; and a brother, William Daniel White.

 

Bob served in the US Navy from 1944 to 1945.  He worked as a tool and die maker at OMC Gale Products for many years, retiring in 1980.  He was also a world renowned gunsmith and knife maker for over 60 years.  Bob was a life member of NRA and enjoyed shooting guns.  He was always involved in his family’s and friend’s lives.  He will be missed by many.

 

Per his wishes, cremation rites will be accorded and no services are planned.  Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Watson-Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg.  Memorial contributions may be made to the NRA.  Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.