Theodore Ted “ TP “ White was born in Kokomo, Indiana on April 27, 1941. He was the youngest of 7 born to Daisy Mae and Everett Kenneth White. He moved to Fresno, California with his family at the age of 3. He grew up being the apple of his mother’s eye.
Ted graduated from Fresno high school in 1960 and went on to find employment at the South Pacific Railroad following in his father and grandfather’s footsteps. He served as a switchman, brakeman, and yard master during his 30 years of employment. He took an early retirement in the early 90's due to some health issues.
Ted met his wife, Charleen in 1961. They were married on September 11, 1964. They raised 3 amazing daughters: Kimberly, Michelle and Jennifer. While his girls were growing up, Ted was involved in their after school clubs and many sports activities. He was actively involved in their education and serve as PTA president at their elementary school for a number of years.
Ted had an incredible work ethic and often worked 16 hour days for several weeks at a time to provide for his family. When he was not at work, Ted enjoyed listening to music, watching TV, taking trips to the beach and playing Pinochle and other card games.
He passed peacefully on Wednesday January 4, 2023 in Fresno, California with is wife and oldest daughter by his side.
He is survived by his wife of 58 years Charleen, daughters Kimberly, Michelle, Jennifer, son in law Russell Fortner, grandchildren: Zachary, Austin, Elizabeth, Nicholas, Jason and Benjamin.
