John "Rich" White

John "Rich" White, 73, passed away on March 13, 2025 after an acute illness. He fought 3 cancers before passing peacefully with family at his side. He was a devoted husband of almost 53 years to the love of his life, Janet. He was a hero to his children, and a superhero to his grandchildren. In his younger days, he was a coal miner but spent most of his working life at Ametek Specialty Metals until his retirement. At Ametek, he made countless friends and had years of fun and cherished memories. After retirement, he bored quickly and took on several new hobbies including Rich’s Ice Cream truck which could be seen frequenting Waynesburg and nearby towns during the hot summer months. He also drove school bus for Fox’s for Central Greene School district, a job he loved dearly. The bus children meant the world to him, as did driving the sports team to after-school events. He was much more than just a bus driver; he was a friend, a familiar face, and a trusted presence on the road. He also drove vehicles for Ron Lewis Automotive Group. He simply loved to be on the road and surrounded by people. His favorite past times included playing golf, watching the Steelers, making TikToks with his granddaughters, taking his grandsons fishing and hunting, playing cards, anything lottery related, and going to the Meadows Casino with his wife but his most favorite activity was watching his grandkids play sports. He coached many youth sports when his children were younger. He loved all sports from soccer to football to basketball and volleyball. He was on the WCHS Football Team Chain Gang for over 30 Yrs. He was a proud dad and even prouder pappy watching from the sidelines when he wasn’t coaching. We all knew his beaming smile and color commentary would be present at the kids’ games.

Rich was a jack of all trades, always willing to lend a hand, offer some Mr. Fix-It advice, or provide tools when needed. If he didn’t have the tool, he would make a trade with someone he knew. Maybe a lawnmower or snow blower or some other car part from his collection would be bartered for the needed supply. Somehow he always managed to show up with whatever was needed and fix the problem.

A known entity in the community, Rich was the best husband, dad, pappy, coach, and friend one could ever hope to have.

He was born January 15, 1952, the son of late John L. and Icie White.

He was a graduate of Jefferson Morgan High School, class of 1972.

On March 24, 1972 he married his best friend, Janet White, who survives.

Surviving in addition to his wife are son Bob White, wife Tara; second son Travis Kirby, wife Chastity; daughter Michelle Bolz, husband Jerrod; adored grandchildren Ziggy and Zoey White, Nate and Brynn Kirby, Rylie and Ethan Bolz; one brother Bill (Gloria), and two sisters Joan (Melvin) Litten and Judy Reha and many other extended family and friends. Rich became like a second dad to so many; he had a kind, genuine nature and quick witted humor which everyone loved.

Deceased in addition to his parents are two sisters, Sue McDermott and Jane Lancaster and beloved canine companion RT.

Many obituaries report cancer is a battle or cancer is a war. But most viciously, cancer is a thief. A thief of time, of energy, often of appetite, sleep, and enjoyment. Hug the ones you love a little tighter and never miss an opportunity to tell someone you love them.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM and from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Thursday, March 20, 2025 in the Milliken and Throckmorton Funeral Home, Inc. 197 N. Maiden St. Waynesburg, PA 15370 Shane M. Ayers, Director where his service will be held at 11:00 AM, Friday, March 21, 2025. Burial will be in Greene County Memorial Park, Morgan Twp., PA 15370 Condolences and pics can be shared online at www.milliken-throckmortonfh.com