WW II Veteran – Carpenter
On February 9th, 2019, at the age of 94, Doug passed away peacefully in his home located in Camino, California. He was born on August 16, 1924, in his family home located at Hayward, California. Doug was raised on a chicken ranch in Hayward by his parents, along with 2 sisters and a brother. He attended local schools where he graduated from Hayward HS in 1942.
Doug joined the military in April 1943. He rose to the rank of staff sergeant where he became an expert marksman for the Army Air Corps. He was assigned to a B 17 “Fortress McHenry” crew as a gunner. Doug is a World War II Veteran who flew nearly 30 bombing missions over France and Germany. He and his crew provided air support for the brave American men who invaded France on D Day to combat the German army. He received numerous medals prior to his discharge from the Service in October 1945. Doug was proud of his military service but would rarely talk about it until his later years in life.
Upon returning to the States Doug pursued his courtship with Mary O’Connor whom he exchanged numerous letters with while he was at war. While they had attended local schools together since childhood their courtship did not begin until their early adulthood. They married and raised 3 boys. Doug and Mary were married nearly 67 years until her passing in December 2013 at the age of 88.
Doug was a hard worker who held numerous jobs as a young man. He eventually learned the carpentry trade and became a self-employed general contractor and worked 30 plus years in the industry. He was an expert carpenter who built many homes including his own in Camino. Some of his hobbies included playing the trumpet, fishing, collecting sports memorabilia, antiques and Christmas Tree Farming.
After Mary’s passing, Doug lived on his own in his home until the age of 93, when his health finally started to deteriorate.
Doug is survived by his sons, Richard, Michael (his partner Barbara), Doug (his wife Kelly); four grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary and grandson Justin.
Doug touched many people’s lives with his dry since of humor and willingness to help others be it family, relatives or friends.
A private family service will be held at his grave site in Hayward at the Lone Tree Cemetery where he will be laid to rest with his wife.
Please join us in remembering William “Doug” White, by visiting our Memorial at
www.chapelofthepinesfunerals.com.
Through this website, we invite you to share your thoughts and fond memories with our family.
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