LEAWOOD — Deacon Steve White died on Jan. 28, surrounded by his family and Father Joel Haug, a close family friend.
White was born on June 2, 1959, married Lisa in July 1990 and was ordained a permanent deacon on June 3, 2017. He was described as the gentlest of deacons and the model of service in his ministry. He was also a loving husband and devoted father.
White worked as a veterinarian for 36 years. After his ordination to the permanent diaconate, he was assigned to Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood, where he was a member.
Deacon White’s passing is a great loss to the permanent diaconate community of the archdiocese, said Leon Suprenant, co-director of the permanent diaconate.
His soft-spoken demeanor belied his great intelligence and insightful understanding of the human condition, said Suprenant. He was kind, compassionate, humble and wise.
When Deacon White was asked if he had anything to say to the parishioners at Curé of Ars, he offered the following: “I’m just so sorry my service as a deacon was so short, but I did the best I could. Please pray for me.”
Deacon White recently gained notoriety as the 900th heart transplant patient at St. Luke’s Hospital. During White’s final days, he told Lisa, “I can’t imagine having a better life. It’s been really fulfilling. I just hope I gave glory to God.” He is survived by his wife Lisa and their two children, Kimberly White and Kathryn Johnson.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contribution to Curé of Ars Parish, Holy Family School of Faith or KC Pet Project.
