Sergeant Major Alan J. White US Army

Sergeant Major Alan J. White, US Army (Retired), age 86, passed away Friday, February 23. Survivors include Elyane White, his beloved wife of 60 years; their daughter, Kathleen and her husband Patrick; his grandchildren, Chris and Carrie Doan and step-grandchildren, Shay and Sean Canty; also his sister, Roberta (Bobbie) Markiewicz of Cheektowaga, New York; and nephews, Daniel, Jr and David Markiewicz; nieces, Joanne Markiewicz, Laurie Glieco, and from France, niece Sylvie Lucas. Alan entered the US Army in April of 1942 and served in the United States and Europe in World War II during which time he met his future wife in France. He returned to Buffalo, married his wonderful Elyane, and following the birth of their daughter, Kathleen, moved the family to Arizona for health reasons. He reentered the Army in July 1948 and subsequently served in France, Germany, Vietnam, and several posts throughout the United States. Retiring as a Sergeant Major after 28 years, Alan and his Elyane moved to Austin and then happily found their home and friends in Battle Bend Springs. He started a new career with the IRS Center in Austin. After 9 years, he retired again, beginning anew with H&R Block for 6 years; he learned some sign language in order to assist with tax preparation at the Texas School for the Deaf in Austin. During this time with his Elyane, Alan also became an RSVP volunteer serving in the Library at Galindo Elementary School for 15 years. He enjoyed each of his careers to the utmost and found them all fulfilling. In addition to his Military Honors and Commendations, he also received numerous awards for his city and neighborhood activities, including the 1999 JCPenney Golden Rule Award (with his Elyane) for exceptional community volunteer service. The family will receive friends at the Wilke-Clay-Fish Funeral Home from 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm on Sunday, February 25. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Ignatius Martyr Church at 10:00 am Monday, February 26. Interment will follow at Assumption Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Alan’s name will be gratefully received by Galindo Elementary Library, Attn: Sue George, 3800 S. 2nd Street, Austin, TX 78704. Memorials and guestbook online at wcfish.com