Nellie Mae White, age 85, died peacefully on Monday, October 19, 2015. Nell, as she preferred to be called, was born on October 30, 1929 in Casnovia, Michigan. She was preceded in death by her parents, Willard and Viva White; brothers, Tom, Jim (Georgene); brother-in-law, Lyman Clark; and lifelong friend, Betty Peters. Nell is survived by her sister, Marilyn White Clark; brother, Ted (Marianne) White; many nieces and nephews; also numerous friends. After high school, Nell graduated in 1951 from Butterworth Hospital School of Nursing, receiving her degree as a Registered Nurse. She then joined the United States Air Force where she served as a First Lieutenant. She was stationed at Lackland Air Force base in San Antonio, Texas from 1951-1953. After her military discharge, Nell returned to Michigan where she worked and held leadership roles at both Butterworth and St. Mary’s hospitals. It was at St. Mary’s where she met her friend, Betty Peters, and together they decided to further their nursing education. Moving to the Detroit area, she attended Wayne State University and trained at University of Detroit Mercy, graduating as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. Nell and Betty worked as nurse anesthetists for over 35 years in Kalamazoo at Bronson and Borgess hospitals. Nell remained active and involved in many interests throughout her life. She enjoyed traveling and participated in everything from skiing in Aspen to snorkeling in the Caribbean. She was a good golfer, avid camper and an enthusiastic walker. She loved spending summers at her home at Sandy Pines. Over the years, Nell also raised and enjoyed many dogs. Combined with her skills in nursing and the love of her Roman Catholic faith, Nell was always there to offer help and kindness to anyone. She will be remembered for her reserved manner and her quick, dry Irish wit! Nell was a loving and generous sister, aunt and friend. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul the Apostle Church, 2750 Burton St. S.E., Grand Rapids. Msgr. Ernest P. Schneider presiding. Interment S. Casnovia Cemetery. Visitation one hour prior to the Mass at the church. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to San Juan Diego Academy, 1650 Godfrey S.W., Wyoming, MI 49509 or a charity of your choice. A special thanks for the kindness and care from the staff at Clark at Keller Lake.
