M
AHOMET - Ronald D. White, 71, of Mahomet died Thursday (Oct. 30, 2025) after a two-year battle with turbo cancer (which he would tell you he beat in record time).Ron White was born on July 14, 1954, which was the hottest day in recorded history in Champaign County, 109 degrees. His mom, our Grannie, told the story every year.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Betty White, and brother Doug.
He is survived by his wife and college sweetheart of 48 years, Margaret; brother Terry White of Roscoe; two sons, Mike (Jana) White of Greendale, Wis., and Andrew (Alyssa) White of Mahomet; his grandchildren; beloved bonus daughter, Danielle (Trent) Reed of Savoy; and bonus son, Aaron (Shannon) Collins of Mahomet.
Ron grew up in St. Joseph, where he was a three-sport standout (football, basketball and baseball) and was later inducted in the St. Joe-Ogden Hall of Fame.
He proudly attended the University of Illinois, walking on to the Fighting Illini football team and later earning a scholarship. There, he met his life long friend, Stu, and the two organized a group fishing trip to Canada every year for more than 40 years. He graduated with a degree from the college of agriculture and had a successful career in agbusiness, culminating as the president of Precision Soya. He believed work was a way for people to find purpose, and he took joy in helping others succeed. The friendships and bonds he built through work were among the most important in his life.
He modeled what it meant to be a Christian man. He was quick to listen and slow to speak. He bonded with his kids over business, teaching them from a young age about the entrepreneurial spirit. His kindness and generosity were expansive and anonymous, sometimes even to his wife and family.
When he retired, he proudly called himself a "poor farmer" and built an outdoor haven for his grandkids, Charlie, Dean, Wynnie, Lucy and Jack; as well as bonus grandchildren, Kaleb, Kenna, Owen and Mason.
Ron was at his happiest surrounded by friends, family and fields. He never missed a sporting event for his sons and later became the most loyal fan of his grandchildren.
He didn't waste time on "what-ifs" or "could-haves," only on what did happen and how to move forward. He rarely complained except for Illinois taxes and the refs at football games.
Ron loved Illinois football tailgates before a loss or after a win.
He was most at home with his friends and family enjoying a beer and a cigar. Mark, Bill, Jack and Tom were his daily phone calls, never missing a chance to answer the phone with his classic "HELLO."
Ron and Margaret built a beautiful life together. He was the calm to her storm, and they were best friends. Though he wasn't fond of dancing, he never missed a chance to dance with her when "Wagon Wheel" played.
He'd be grateful for his quick exit after a tough two-year fight. We know he is currently organizing large tailgates and get togethers around a heavenly campfire.
A celebration of life will take place at 4 p.m. with services beginning at 5 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 14, at Carmon's, 804 N. Neil St., Champaign. Please wear your favorite Illini gear.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the MAYC Foundation, P.O. Box 964, Mahomet, IL 61853. Condolences may be offered at owensfuneralhomes.com.
Published by The News-Gazette on Nov. 1, 2025.
