Lifelong Alamosa resident, Gene White, passed away at Homelake Veterans Center on January 14, 2022, at the age of 81, with his daughter by his side. He was born in Alamosa, CO to Norman W. and Lois L. (Brothers) White.
Over the past few years he faced medical challenges that impacted him physically, but he fought hard to stay with his family. He showed his courage by facing continued physical pains, and yet still managed to keep his wonderful sense of humor.
The simple pleasures in life brought Gene the most joy. He loved spending time with his family. Whether it was a day for a family adventure, a trip to explore a new area, or watching his grandkids compete in sports. Gene rarely sat still, he was always game for a road trip to a square dance, a fishing spot, or even just to go eat lunch. Many mornings, he could be found in April’s driveway, waiting in his car for the family to wake up so an adventure could begin. He was the type of grandfather that any child would wish for, and he spent as much time with them as he could throughout their lives. He was an avid motorcyclist, having owned and operated a motorcycle parts business, formed a motorcycle touring club, and competed in motorcycle trials competitions in the 70’s. Later, he took up motorcycling again and went on many motorcycle trips with Scott, and he cherished the time they spent together. Gene absolutely loved any form of dancing, especially country/western and square dancing, and when his toes started tapping, no dancing partner was safe!
Gene graduated from Alamosa High School and served in the US Army. He managed Wolf Creek Ski area for two years, and then worked as a heavy equipment operator and mechanic throughout the rest of his career, ultimately retiring from the US Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. Much like his father, he was mechanically inclined - he could fix just about anything and if not properly fix it, he could “rig” it so that it worked just fine! He served as the Exalted Ruler of the Alamosa Elks Lodge, where he was a life member. He donated many hours, and enjoyed many more there during dances, dinners, and participating in events with his other Past Exalted Rulers, and even calling Bingo for many years.
He is survived by his daughter April (Michael) Gonzales, son Scott White, grandchildren Davis and Brooke Gonzales, as well as siblings Norman “LeRoy” (MaryAnn) White and Yvonne Adcock. He is preceded in death by his parents as well as his sister and brother in-law Elaine and Harold Ziegler.
A memorial service will be held at a later time due to the risks associated with COVID. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Veteran Community Living Center Homelake (Resident Benefit Fund). To express condolences to the family, please visit www.rogersfunerals.com
Rogers Family Mortuary in Alamosa is in care of the arrangements.