Richard White

Richard E. “Dick” White, age 76, of York, NE, died Tuesday, January 24, 2012 at York. He was born on March 16, 1935 in York, NE to Elven and Cecilia (Leininger) White. In the early 1940s the White family moved to a ranch near Atkinson, NE, where Dick grew up learning how to care for cattle and horses. After graduation from Atkinson High School, Dick began college at the University of Nebraska. He left during his freshman year to return to the ranch to help his dad, who had been injured in a machinery accident. He next enlisted in the US Army where he spent the main part of his service in Germany. Dick then returned to the University of Nebraska and completed his college education, during which time he was active in the Block and Bridle Club and the judging team. He received his BA degree in 1960. Summers during college were spent working in the oil fields in western Nebraska, and traveling with a Hereford show string from a ranch in Kansas. After graduation, Dick worked for four years at a cattle research station at Fort Robinson, near Crawford, NE.

In 1964, Dick married Susan Cunningham from York, NE. In 1965, he took a position with First national Bank in York as farm manager. Also in 1965, the Whites had a son, John, born in the same hospital as his parents. Dick was then offered a position with Ralston Purina managing research cattle feed yards in Lubbock, TX. The next move was to a commercial feed yard at Bruning, NE, and from there to a ranch and cattle operation in Michigan. After 2 ½ years there, the Whites moved back to York to be closer to their parents and many relatives. Dick worked at different part time jobs, while starting to raise cattle and horses, with the help of son, John. There were lots of exciting years breeding, raising, and racing thoroughbred horses. The family was never without a dog to spoil and love. Dick retired in 2005. The Whites enjoyed their retirement, joining the York Fun Club for the monthly casino trip, and Dick taking over the yard and garden duties. He loved learning about the computer and using it to stay in touch with many relatives, former classmates, and friends.

Dick is survived by his wife Susan of York, a sister-in-law, and four nephews and their families. Preceding him in death were his parents, son John, and brother James.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:00 am, Saturday, January 28, 2012 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in York. Burial was in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, York. Memorials may be directed to St. Joseph’s School or York’s Adopt-a-pet.