Editor’s Note: Updated Sept. 26 to include memorial service information.
The Pest Management Professional (PMP) magazine staff is saddened to report the loss of entomologist and frequent photography and article collaborator Gene White, BCE. White, 64, died unexpectedly Sept. 20 while attending an industry conference in Hawaii.
White was the global director of vector management for Rentokil. He began his career in pest management in 1981 as a residential technician. A talented photographer, White was an enthusiastic outdoorsman who loved fishing and hunting.
“Gene was best described as a friend to everyone, a role he extended to his position as a longtime member of Pi Chi Omega and our board of directors,” Dr. Cassie Krejci, BCE, president of industry fraternity Pi Chi Omega and director of technical services for Terminix, tells PMP. “Gene honestly loved this industry, and it was evident in the way he taught others, the way he communicated, and the way he supported his fellow pest management colleague. I speak for everyone in Pi Chi Omega when I say that Gene’s presence, his passion for this industry, and his love for people will be missed deeply. Our hearts, thoughts and prayers go out to his family during this time of profound loss.”
Preceded in death by a daughter, White leaves behind his wife, Janet, five children and 10 grandchildren. A Celebration of Life will take place on Friday, Sept. 30, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at The South Lyon Hotel, South Lyon, Mich. The family requests those who plan to attend to please RSVP via Facebook here, so they know approximately how many guests to expect.
Gene was always a friend with hands to everyone that needs assistance. Great guy, a great technician, and a great professional.
I´m already missing him and open smile.
This is absolutely tragic news. Just last week I spent several hours with Gene at the IPCA spring conference in Springfield, IL. He regaled us with entertaining stories of his time as a college football star and his many experiences in the industry. He will be sorely missed.
I was shocked to learn the sad and sudden demise of Gene White since we just spent some time in June attending the ICUP2022 conference in Barcelona. His passion for the industry doesn’t need any mention. Although from different organizations we spent time together in various events in “customer education” and during the last four years in global vector control systems. Gene you will be missed. RIP.