Vernon "Frank" Franklin White Jr.

Frank White, a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2024. He left a legacy of love, adventure and community service. Born on December 18, 1938, in Santa Monica, California, Frank lived a life full of achievements, passions and devotion to his family and friends.

On November 4, 1961, Frank married the girl of his dreams, Martha Anderson. They lived in Norwalk, California.

Having honed his skills at trade school, Frank’s career began with a solid foundation in tool and dye making. In 1964, he ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing his own company that played a role in the Apollo space missions, among other notable projects.

His success in this field set the stage for a new chapter in April 1974, when he and his wife, Martha, relocated their family to Chico, California. There, they purchased Warner Street Grocery, dedicating two decades to running the store with dedication to the local community.

Frank’s adventurous spirit was evident in his love for traveling and camping, which he shared with his family. They enjoyed weekends on a houseboat, creating lasting memories on the Sacramento River and Lake Oroville. Upon retiring, Frank and Martha found solace and joy in their home along the Sacramento River in Los Molinos, California.

Frank’s enthusiasm for fishing was matched by his love for golf and woodworking. His handcrafted furniture, complemented by Martha’s beautiful artwork, was showcased at the Dairyville Orchard Festival and the Orland Craft Fair and became treasured family heirlooms.

Frank’s community involvement was as vibrant as his personal pursuits. He played a large role in overseeing the construction of the Cone Methodist Church social hall and actively participated in church events such as Thanksgiving dinners and St. Patrick's Day lunches. His commitment to his church family brought him great joy and fulfillment.

In 2011, Frank and Martha purchased an RV lot in Star Valley, Wyoming, where they spent their summers escaping the Northern California heat, golfing with their friends and enjoying the beauty of the area. Their earlier travels with the Elks RV Club allowed them to explore the United States, enriching their lives with new experiences and friendships.

Frank is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Martha; his daughter Michele and her husband Dan; his son Kenny and his wife Sofia; his grandchildren David, Jonathan, Evan, Jared, Paul, Kenneth and Amelia; and his great-grandson Mathias. His legacy of love, adventure and generosity will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A memorial service celebrating Frank’s remarkable life will be held at the Cone Methodist Church on September 28, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. All who knew him are welcome to join in remembering and celebrating his life.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children or Tunnel to Towers, honoring Frank’s spirit of compassion and community service.