Richard Farrell White, (17), passed away in his home in Jackson, MI on May 11, 2011, after a five year battle with cancer. He was 76 years old. A native of San Francisco, Dick was the son of Grace and Leslie White. Upon graduating from St Ignatius High School in 1952, he was appointed to the Naval Academy. Two weeks after his graduation with the 17th company, Dick married his OAO, Katherine Hoaas, at the Presidio of San Francisco. Shortly thereafter, he began flight training in Pensacola, FL, and was designated a Naval Aviator. Serving 30 years on active duty, Dick's assignments included aviation, amphibious, and joint staff assignments. His various aviation tours involved VP-9 (NAS Alameda), VP-19 (NAS Mountain View), and command of VP-4 (NAS Barbers Point). Amphibious assignments were command of SHREVEPORT (LPD-12), and Amphibious Squadron Four. His joint staff assignments included Assistant J-3 HQ EUCOM and Assistant Chief of Staff, Logistics, SACLANT. His professional education included the Naval Postgraduate School and the US Army War College. His decorations included the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, and the Navy League's Stephen Decatur award for Operational Competence for actions as Commander US Forces Lebanon 6/82 -11/82. These actions resulted in the cessation of armed conflict and the evacuation of the PLO/Syrian combatants from Beirut. Upon retirement in June 1986, Dick got his teaching credentials and started a new career as a math teacher in Jackson, MI, where he and Katherine retired. Continuing his track record of service, Dick was a source of motivation and inspiration for his students and friends alike. Dick is remembered by all who knew him as a true gentleman, a man of great integrity, a pun aficionado, and teller of the lousiest shaggy dog stories around. He was known far and wide as Mr. Music. He is sorely missed by community, friends, and the family he loved so much. Dick is survived by his wife of 55 years, Katherine; daughters, Katherine (William) and Inger Marie; son, Richard (Kelly); and grandchildren William, Laura, Bryan, Aidan, and Anthony. Services were held at Queen of the Miraculous Medal Catholic Church in Jackson, MI on May 16, 2011. Dick will be interred at the United States Naval Academy columbarium in July 2011.