Obituary of Milton White

WHITE, Ellis Milton – of Nine Mile River.  We are saddened to announce the loss of our loving husband, father (in law), grandfather, brother (in law) and friend to all.  Milton passed away at the age of 85 peacefully at home on October 1, 2021 after a long battle with dementia.  Born in White Settlement on July 20, 1936, he was the son of the late Addison and Lina (Miller) White and son-in-law of the late Sidney and “Minnie” (Thompson) Preeper.

Milton worked in construction, landscaping and then became a skilled and dedicated woodsman in the forestry industry.  In 1965, he married Shirley at the United Church in Nine Mile River. Not long after, Milton and Shirley would start to build their home and family in the community. He enjoyed visiting family and friends, being outdoors, attending jamborees, dances, card parties and playing horseshoes.  Milton was not afraid to get his hands dirty and could often be found working on and fixing old vehicles. In his early years he followed a family tradition of training and racing horses.  An incredibly patient listener, Milton never got tired of hearing the stories of others. Depending on the topic, some stories would generate a wide grin and a deep infectious laugh.  He would literally laugh until he cried.  Milton’s interest and presence was always genuine.  He loved listening to old time country music and became a big fan of Merle Haggard.

Milton lived his life caring for other’s needs more than his own.  He never had anything bad to say about anyone and never complained. His greatest pleasures and pride came from enjoying and celebrating the accomplishments of others.  Everyone had a place in his heart, but his family was his world. For those who knew him, it was an honour and a privilege.  The world lost a most decent soul, but his positivity and place in it will never be forgotten and his “way” will be a model for all of us to strive for.

Milton is survived by his wife of 56 years, Shirley Mae (Preeper); children, Merlin Milton (Paula), Boise Idaho; Yvonne Shirley (Steven), Nine Mile River; John Sidney, Nine Mile River; Michael David (Jackie), Monte Vista; grandchildren, Mitchell, Travis and Breagh White; brothers, Hollis (Grace), Grant (Laura), Orlee (Darlene), Donald (Faye); sister, Christina Parker; sister-in-law, Helen (Kenny) Boutilier.

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers, Robert “Bobby”, Malcolm, Wallace and Gerald “Jed”.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Ettinger Funeral Home, Shubenacadie. A visitation will be held from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM on Tuesday, October 5^th in Nine Mile River United Church, 6624 Highway 14, Nine Mile River. A funeral service will take place at 11 AM Wednesday, October 6^th in the same location. Interment to follow at Sand Hill Cemetery, Upper Nine Mile River. Rev. Kim Curlett officiating.  A livestream of the service will be available on Riverview and Nine Mile River Church Facebook page.

Link to the livestream of the funeral service: https://www.facebook.com/ElmsdaleCooperativeMinistry/live_videos/

Current provincial COVID-19 regulations are to be adhered to.  Masks are required and proof of vaccination will be required to attend the visitation and the funeral.

The family would like to extend their sincere thanks to their family doctor, Dr. Sheehy, for his kindness and compassion in all of his years of caring for Milton.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made in memory of Milton White to the Nine Mile River United Church, 6624 Highway 14, Nine Mile River, NS B2S 2V8.

Tributes, words of comfort and memories of Milton may be shared with the family at www.ettingerfuneralhome.com