WHITE, MURRAY DOUGLAS. Apr 13, 1931 – Dec 25, 2009
With heavy hearts and deep sadness we grieve over the passing of Murray on December 25, 2009 at the age of 78. He was taken from us on this special day, after a courageous battle with cancer. We are sure the angels were there to guide him to a more peaceful place. Murray was born in Kamloops and was raised in Penticton, where he became an avid basketball player as he attended Penticton High. He loved basketball and made many life long friends on the team. In Penticton he also met the love of his life, Marguerite Menu from Summerland. They moved to
Coquitlam shortly after their marriage, but later in 1962 realized Kelowna was the place to raise their family. Murray worked for BC Tree Fruit Limited in the transportation and claims department for 25 years. Murray was an active member of the Kelowna Jaycees, and Toastmasters Organizations. He was a wonderful kind human being who loved people, life and nature. Murray enjoyed going for daily walks to the lake, and tending to his beautiful garden. He would always greet people with a friendly hello and smile. Murray went out of his way to help others, and his fellow neighbours. His fascination with trains was attributed to the honorable involvement of his father in the Canadian Pacific Railway Company. He was predeceased by his parents, Agnes and Douglas White. He is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Marguerite, and four children, who will miss him deeply: Diane (Tom) Routtu, Karen (John) Campbell, Michelle (Rob) Smith and David White. Murray had a special love for his nine grandchildren, who brought him much joy and laughter: Jennifer and Nicole Routtu, Kara and Courtney Campbell, Justine and Adam White, Maya, Miles, and Ava Smith. Murray is also survived by his only brother, Willis (Pat) White. His numerous nieces and nephews will remember him with much fondness, as will his four legged pal Charlie. Murray had many brothers and sisters-in-law, who were a big part of his life. We want to thank the doctors and staff of the Kelowna General Hospital. A special thanks to Dr. Hickman, Dr. Crittenden, and the wonderful nursing staff at Hospice House for Murray’s care. Murray had a wonderful kind spirit that blessed everyone he met and will be missed by all. There will be a family service officiated by Murray’s brother-in-law, Arthur Menu. We will hold a celebration of his life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hospice House, 2035 Ethel Street, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 2E6. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.springfieldfuneralhome.com, 250-860-7077.