Kurtis Robert White, born on February 5, 1997 to Jackson D. White and Sandra E. White of Warren, Michigan; unexpectedly passed away on January 16, 2021, at the age of 23. He was the beloved brother to Kevin J. White (Karsyn B. Textor) of Westfield, Indiana. Preceding Kurtis was his loving grandfather, Jackson D. White Sr.; as well as his precious grandmother, Dolores L. Ridky. Kurtis is survived by his loving grandmother, Eva J. White of Warren, Michigan; and his caring grandfather, Richard P. Ridky of Kalkaska, Michigan. He was the dear Godson of Deborah A. Zelkowski and David L. Zelkowski. Kurtis is remembered and loved by many other aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, teammates and fraternity brothers.
Kurtis graduated from De La Salle Collegiate High School in 2015, where he was a decorated competitive swimmer earning all-academic and state team awards. From a young age, Kurtis was an accomplished club swimmer for the Lakers Aquatic Club. He first attended Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan, studying Engineering and continued his collegiate swimming career. He later transferred to the University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky where he posthumously earned a Bachelor Degree in Mechanical Engineering and was a member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity, Beta Nu Chapter. He loved life in Lexington.
Kurtis was known for his infectious, loving, and selfless character, and for being a supportive friend to all of his teammates and fraternity brothers throughout the years. His smile brightened all those he came into contact with. After eleven years of dedicated work, Kurtis was very proud to earn the Eagle Scout award in 2015 – Once an Eagle, Always an Eagle.
He also enjoyed the outdoors, paintball, gaming, backpacking, hiking, was scuba diving certified, physical fitness and was a knowledgeable sports enthusiast. His spirit will live on in the hearts of family and friends forever.
A viewing for Kurtis will take place at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, 40501 Hayes Rd., Sterling Heights, Michigan at 9:00 am on Monday, January 25, 2021 followed by a Celebration of Life Mass at 9:30 am (masks are required). In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations in Kurtis’ name be made to the De La Salle Collegiate High School Swimming and Diving Team,14600 Common Rd, Warren, MI 48088.
Builders of Boys; Makers of Men. St. John Baptiste de la Salle, pray for us. Live Jesus in our hearts forever.
