Charles E. White

Charles E. White completed his life journey on Tuesday morning, February 14, 2023 from complications due to Alzheimer’s Disease. The grace, courage and dignity which he lived his life was the way he passed from it with his beloved wife, Jeri, always lovingly at his side.

Chuck was born June 24, 1932 to parents Alice (nee Brown) & Kerby White. After losing his mother at the age of 8 he was raised by various relatives until he joined the US Marines at age 18. He was extremely proud to serve his country, a legacy that would lead his son and grandsons to follow. His humble beginnings in Painesville would later be the city he would honorably serve and protect in his career in law enforcement. During his 30 year tenure with the police department, Chuck began as a patrol officer in 1954, and ultimately retired as the Chief of Police in the city he was born. His work ethic and desire to take care of his family led him to also working second jobs in his early days with the department. He attended Kent State and Lake Erie College as he advanced in the ranks, always bettering his commitment to keeping our community safer for all. He completed training with the FBI to instruct those following in his footsteps in the Ohio Peace Officer Basic Training Program. He received many accolades during his career, including President of the Lake County Police Chiefs Association.

Chuck proudly wore his badge for 30 years retiring in 1984 from Civil Service. He then turned his hobby of working on small motors to a successful 15 year venture with White’s Mower Repair. His retirement years were filled with an abundance of adventure with Jeri at his side. They traveled on their motorcycles together seeing & experiencing all but one (Rhode Island) of the 48 Continental US States. They spent their winters in Hobe Sound, Fla and enjoyed playing competition Shuffleboard all the way to the state championship.

He loved music, especially country music, and could often be found line dancing with Jeri and teaching others in dance classes including ballroom dancing. If he wasn’t working on his motorcycle or mowers, he was strumming his guitar. As grandchildren blessed their life, Chuck would adjust his work schedule to always be able to attend their activities and sports. Chuck led a life of service, but also one of abundant love.

Chuck leaves behind his beloved and devoted wife Jeri (nee Ruffner). Their love story was blessed with five children left to lovingly remember their father. Joseph Lee White ( Debbie), Jackie White ( Carl Rabalais), Kim Harman (Duncan), Robin Hribar (Lee) and Karl White (Felicia). He also leaves behind his sister, Patricia Williams (Toby) of Nashville, TN. His legacy will live on in his grandchildren, Chuck & Tom White, Zachary White, Troy and Ashley Harman, Adam & Abraham Hribar, Alexandra HribarDauer, and Kayla, Katelyn, & Karla White. Chuck is also survived by 12 great grandchildren.

He was preceeded in death by his parents; and two sisters, Helen and Virginia. He was also left to mourn the passing of his grandson, August White. To honor Chuck’s memory in lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged in his honorable name to The Hospice of the Western Reserve, PO Box 72101, Cleveland, Ohio 44192.

Friends will be received 2-4 pm Sunday February 19th at the Behm Family Funeral Home, 26 River St., Madison, with a Service immediately following at 4 pm. Online obituary and condolences may be viewed at www.behmfuneral.com