White, George Thomas – 1871-1943

BRANIFF, PEARSON, WHITE

Posted By: Diana Wagner
Date: 7/13/2021 at 21:35:37

Colfax – George Thomas White, 72, well-known labor leader in Iowa and the United States died at the University Hospital at Iowa City, Tuesday night, Oct. 19, of a blood clot following an operation.
Mr. White had been in failing health for some time and for the last three months had been bedfast at his home here. A week ago he went to Iowa City for further treatment.
He served as international board member of the United Mine Workers of America from 1935 to 1939 and played an important part in labor matters throughout the United States. Previous to this he had served eight years as a district board member of district 13.
George White was born in Marske, Yorkshire, England, April 29, 1871. He came to America when 21 years of age and located at Oswalt working in the mines. He spent the remainder of his life in Colfax. For eight years he was engaged in the mercantile business here. On June 19, 1899 he was united in marriage to Margaret Braniff at Des Moines.
To this union were born six children, three having preceded him in death.
He is survived by his wife, two sons, Earnest, of Chicago, and Apprentice Seaman Thomas White, Jr, in the U.S. service located at Butler University, Indianapolis, Ind., one daughter, Coleen White, of Chicago and one sister, Mrs. Joe Pearson of Des Moines.
Pallbearers at the funeral service were Noah Barker, Tom Nesbit, Victor Wassgren, Sam Snooks, Tom Wilson and Frank Hybl.
Those on the flower committee were Mrs. Dave Owens and Mrs. Mary Richardson.
Mrs. Alfred Tobias and Mrs. George Rinker furnished the music.
Burial was at the McKeever cemetery.
Source: Newton Daily News; October 28, 1943, page 5