THOMAS JAMES WHITE

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THOMAS JAMES WHITE After a life well lived, Tom White died on March 15, 2005, at the Victoria General Hospital at the age of 84. Tom was predeceased by his parents, Margaret and Andrew White. Left to cherish his memory are his wife Betty; his sons, David and Ken (Nancy Doern-White); grandchildren, Kathryn and Stephen; brother Andrew (Joyce;) and nieces, Pat and Eileen. Tom was born in Winnipeg on January 21, 1921. During the depression, he left school to work at Eatons to help support the family. He and Betty Todd were married on June 19, 1943, and they lived in Fort Garry throughout their 62 years together. During the Second World War, Tom joined the Royal Canadian Air Force and served overseas with 408 and 426 Squadrons. In 1946 Tom joined the staff of the University of Manitoba Faculty of Engineering, Department of Electrical Engineering, where he eventually became chief technologist. Tom was a self-taught man, gaining knowledge in electrical engineering, measurements, instrumentation, high voltage and electronics. He assisted in the design, manufacture and construction of special components and controls of the university's high voltage impulse generator. In 1958 he serviced and assisted in the programming of the university's first digital computer. He retired in 1984 after 38 years in what he referred to as the most exciting job in the world. Tom was a life member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and served as secretary, treasurer and chairman of the Winnipeg board in the 1960s. He was a co-author of several scientific papers published by the organization. In 1965 he was a founding member of the Manitoba Society of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists (MANSCETT). The organization became the Certified Technicians and Technologists Association of Manitoba (CTTAM) and Tom was honoured with a life membership. Tom was a longtime member of the Wildewood Club, where he relaxed by golfing and curling, often with people many years his junior. He enjoyed his family and was proud of their many accomplishments. Cremation has taken place and a service to celebrate Tom's life will take place on Tuesday, March 22 at 1:00 p.m. in Thomson In the Park Funeral Home, 1291 McGillivray Blvd., with Rev. Dr. Eleanor Geib officiating. A private interment will take place prior to the service. The family would like to thank Dr. Roy Smith for his years of care, and the staff at Victoria General Hospital, where Tom spent his last few days. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to a charity of choice. THOMSON IN THE PARK Funeral Home Cemetery 1291 McGillivray Blvd. 925-1120

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 19, 2005