Gary Robert White, 60, of Marion, passed away on Tuesday, March 8, 2016 at 1 pm at his home.
Gary was born May 10, 1955 in Marion the son of Frank L and Mary (Odum) White.
He was retired, formerly the owner of Industrial Trucking and Rigging. Gary was of the Baptist faith and a member of the Operator’s Union Local #318, U.S. Auto Club and the Vintage Karting Association.
In addition to the love for his children, Gary had a lifelong love of racing. As a teenager, he was a successful go-kart racer. In his twenties, he moved to sprint car racing. His #42 “White Tornado” sprint car was a common sight at many race tracks throughout the Midwest. When his sprint car racing career ended, he used his knowledge and love of racing to help upcoming drivers with starting their careers. Later in life, he returned to his roots by becoming involved in the Vintage Go-Kart Racing Association.
He was happiest when he was at a race track or working long hours on engines and motors. A large racing community of friends and fans will miss his friendship and presence at tracks and hanging out in racing garages, telling stories and enjoying all the memories that racing brings.
Survivors include his;
Daughter – Darcy White of Marion
Son – Jake White of Marion
Brother – David White and wife Diane of Marion
Sister – Janice Mestas and husband Teo of Johnston City
Sister – Jane Stone and husband Doug of Mt. Juliet, Tennessee
Niece – Andrea Fuller and husband Tony of Bartlett, Tennessee
Nephew – Jamie White and wife Kathy of Marion
Nephew – Ryan Mestas of Bowling Green, Kentucky
Niece – Nicole Pulcher and husband Nick of Murphysboro
Nephew – Garrett Mestas of Johnston City
Nephew – Max Mestas and wife Sarah stationed at McGuire Air Force Base
Several great nieces and nephews
Proceded by his Parents
Funeral services will be Saturday, March 12, 2016 at 1 pm at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home with Pastor Bobby Parker officiating. Burial will follow at Cana Cemetery on Route #166. Visitation will be Saturday from 10 am until the time of service at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made the The Children of Gary White to defray funeral costs. Envelopes will be available and accepted at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home, 800 North Market Street, Marion, Illinois 62959.