Rabbi Kenneth Nathan White, April 22, 2021

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Rabbi Kenneth Nathan White, husband to Janice Diane Goldberg White and father to Joshua Daniel and Rachel Leah. He passed on April 22 in Buffalo, NY.

Rabbi White spent his life dedicated to helping others. After graduating from St. Louis University he helped to found Congregation Kol Am before moving to Cincinnati to study to become a rabbi. Upon graduating from Hebrew Union College, Rabbi White went on as a pulpit rabbi to lead Jewish communities in Nebraska, Louisiana, and New York state. 

Endlessly caring for others, Rabbi White volunteered in many areas of public life. This aspect of his personality began while still in college as he was an active member of Tau Delta Phi. After getting married, he and his new wife volunteered in Israel for a local community center. For years he saved lives through his service working for a suicide prevention hotline. After retirement he worked to better his communities through his time with the Kiwanis club and the Masons.

During the last 20 years of his career he dedicated himself to a segment of the Jewish community who are most often forgotten. Working as a chaplain for Sunmount Developmental Center in Tupper Lake, NY he tirelessly worked for those with severe intellectual disabilities making these people’s life as uplifting, positive, and full as possible. He traveled across the Northern mountains of New York state to ensure that the Jewish community within this system had options for Jewish life and services. 

Rabbi White’s caring and respect for everyone was never ending. He always had a story to share with others or a joke to tell. He delighted in brightening someone’s day or making them smile. His large smile lit up his face and brought joy to those around him. 

Rabbi White was a wonderful family man constantly investing time and love into his wife and children. His family misses him dearly but they’re grateful for the time that Gd gave them with him. 

Rabbi White leaves behind his wife of 48 years, two children, and two grandchildren, Yonason Yakov (5) and Chana (2). 

Those wishing to honor Rabbi White and his life with a charitable gift can do so through the following site: https://www.kerenezrasshabbos.org/Support-Us.php