JANUARY 10, 2018
RICHMOND, BC (PGA of British Columbia) -- The PGA of BC is saddened to learn of the recent passing of Life Professional Mel White.
White was a 68-year member of the PGA of Canada based primarily on Vancouver’s North Shore, highlighted by his lengthy tenure at Seymour Golf & Country Club, where he served as Head Professional from 1957 to his retirement in 1992. He passed away Jan. 4 in North Vancouver at the age of 87.
A former president of the PGA of BC, serving the position in 1970-71 and again in 1992, White’s impressive career saw him work alongside some of the Association’s greats.
Born in Prince George in 1930, White moved to Vancouver as a child and was soon working in the backshop at Shaughnessy Golf & Country Club under Head Professional Fred Wood. He became a PGA of Canada member shortly after graduating high school, brought on as an assistant at Shaughnessy.
White was hired in 1950 by Jock McKinnon to work as an assistant at Capilano Golf & Country Club, soon moving on to stints at Montreal’s Beaconsfield Golf Club and again at Shaughnessy before earning his first Head Professional position at West Vancouver’s Gleneagles Golf Club in 1955. Two years later, he began his 35-year residency at Seymour.
Following his retirement, White continued to provide lessons at Park Royal Golf Centre and Takaya Golf Centre up until 2014.
White was named the PGA of BC’s Club Professional of the Year in 1992. He was also an accomplished player, winning the 1980 PGA of BC Seniors’ Championship and 1967 Chilliwack Open, as well as playing in the Canadian Open at Shaughnessy in 1966.
White is survived by his wife of 63 years, Trish, who he met while working at Capilano. Together, they had four children – Pamela, Jeffrey, Kim and former PGA of Canada member Brad – eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
A celebration of life is scheduled for Jan. 27 from 2-4 p.m. at Seymour Golf & Country Club. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Seymour Golf & Country Club Junior Scholarship Program are appreciated.
The PGA of BC extends its deepest sympathies to White’s family, friends and colleagues.