On June 18, 2024, Bobby Dale White left his temporary home for his eternal home.
Born January 5, 1961, to Melvern Dell and Ada Rozella (Rich) White, in Wichita. He graduated from Southeast High School and Emporia State University.
While at Emporia, he met Karyl Lamb and seven months later, they were married on May 23, 1981 in Nickerson. In 1983, during their senior year, the family expanded to include Bryan. After graduation, they moved to Nickerson, and in 1986, Amy joined the family.
Bob initially worked as a mechanic, but his real love turned to the fire industry. Though he enjoyed his time with District 3 fire, retiring as chief, and teaching and coordinating the Fire Science program at HCC, his passion was wildland fire. He spent many summers traveling the country fighting wildland fires.
Bob is survived by Karyl, Bryan and Heidi White, and Leon and Amy Boyea. His grandchildren Brooklynn, Aidan, Kamrynn, Lina, and Lettie White. James and Cora Boyea. Sisters Rita and George Creegan and Cheryl and Hugh Tessendorf. His sisters and brothers-in-laws who he loved like his own siblings. Karen Lovelock, Chris Lamb, Rick and Karie Orem, and Daryl Lamb.
Per Bob’s wishes, he has been cremated and his ashes will be taken to their property in Colorado at a later date. Visitation will be Tuesday, June 25, from 6-8 pm at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling. Memorial service will be Wednesday, June 26, 2024, 2:30 pm at Sterling Evangelical Bible Church.
Bob and Karyl have never been formal, so please dress comfortably. Karyl will be wearing her usual blue jeans and polo shirt.
Additionally, please no plants or flowers. Bob knew that Karyl has a brown thumb, and could kill a cactus within days, so he requested memorials for the oncology floor at St. Francis Hospital. Bob was a guest on their floor many times, for many days over the past three years, so the staff was more than doctors, nurses, and aides for Bob and Karyl, they were friends who cared for them and loved them. If you desire to give to the memorial, please make checks payable to Karyl White and she will ensure the staff on the floor receives the memorial.