Merton Gene White

Merton Gene White died February 7, 2025, following his diagnosis of Stage 3 lung cancer, which he battled through with strength and resilience. He is survived by his wife, Kathy; son, Jeff; daughters, Terri Jo and Kimberly; stepson, Craig; stepdaughter, Susan; son-in-laws, Ian and Brian; daughter-in-law, Claudine; and grandchildren, Tayler, Ava, Samantha, Colby, and Alex.

Mert was born September 25, 1941, in Portland, Oregon. He graduated from Franklin High School in 1959, then attended Southern Oregon College, as well as Portland State University where he received a bachelor’s degree. He was employed by Chevron Oil while attending college courses. Then following his first marriage to Joy Janet from Hood River, Oregon they moved to California. He then worked for Pfizer as a pharmaceutical rep. Shortly after their second daughter was born, the family returned to the Portland area, where he, and the family remained. Mert’s second marriage to Kathleen was in 1981, at which time his stepson Craig, and Stepdaughter Susan joined the family.

Mert’s life career as business owner of Colonial Maintenance began in the 1970’ and continued until his retirement in 2006. He very much enjoyed golf, traveling, especially road trips, reading, and mostly spending time with friends, and family.

The family looks forward to a celebration of life service this spring, TBD.