Robert 'Shorty' White

Robert E. White, known to friends and family as Bob or Shorty, 84, of Salem, passed away at Roanoke Memorial Hospital on January 21, 2013. He was born on July 13, 1928 in Lewis Center, OH, son of the late James Jim and Carrie Ball White. Robert was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He was a proud life-long resident of Salem, and graduated from Andrew Lewis in 1947. After 37 faithful years of service, he retired from Roanoke Iron and Bridge Works. Bob was an avid sportsman and greatly enjoyed hunting and fishing. In the late sixties, he held the state record for a Muskie he caught at Smith Mountain Lake. He was also a dedicated fan of the Ohio State, UVA, Andrew Lewis and Salem High football teams. In addition to his parents, Robert is preceded in death by a daughter, Vicki White; brother, Lynn A. White; and sister, Juanita Sis Dennis. He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Billye White; son, Mark White and his wife Becky of Lawrenceville, GA; brother, Everlyn A. White of Salem, VA; grandson, Robert Matney Mat of Snellville, GA; many nieces and nephews; his Lakeside Rinkie Dink Buddies; and special pet dog, Mollye. The family also wishes to extend heartfelt thanks for the care provided to Bob by Dr. Robert C. Keeley and the staff of the Thoracic ICU, and family friend Kay Selman. A short celebration of Bobs life will take place on Saturday, January 26, 2013 beginning at 2 p.m. in the chapel of John M. Oakey and Son Funeral Home, and a time of visitation will continue until 5 p.m. The family kindly requests that no food or flowers be sent, but that memorial donations can be made in Bobs name to the Salem Animal Shelter at 1301 Indiana Street in Salem, VA 24153. An online guestbook is available for family and friends at www.johnmoakey.com.