Dennis White 1929-2015
Albert Victor Chapter No.117
Dennis was born in Calne just over the border in Wiltshire on 20th October 1929 the son of a Farm Manager. He spent his childhood and school years between Wiltshire and Berkshire. At the age of 18, Dennis was called to National Service in the RAF during which time he worked as scientist and later qualified as a Chartered Engineer.
Following his National Service Dennis had a long and successful career with the Atomic Research Establishment at Aldermaston developing Weapons Technology and Computer Systems, making various visits to the USA, Europe and Sweden. It was computers and their programming which became a lifelong hobby I suppose you could class Dennis as being the original Computer Geek before the term became popular.
In parallel with his successful Professional Career Dennis carved out a formidable Masonic Career. It was during March 1966 at the age of 36; he was Initiated into the Lodge of Remembrance (Wiltshire) and remained a member for 44 years until failing health forced him to resign. He was an active member and Master in Bullbrook and Loddon Bridge Lodges and was also a member of Berkshire Masters Lodge.
His introduction to Berkshire was when he was exalted into Downshire Royal Arch Chapter in December 1977. He was a founder member of Heather Chapter and a member of Berkshire First Principal’s Chapter. It is through the Royal Arch that Most of us would have come to know him, when he served the Province very successfully as Provincial Grand Scribe Ezra then Third and Second Provincial Grand Principal an impressive total of 13 years.
Dennis was Perfected on 28th October 2002 into Albert Victor Chapter and as soon as he could, he progressed through the offices until finally being Enthroned as the Most Wise Sovereign on 20th June 2011 and he received his 30º on the 19th March 2013. Dennis not being one to sit back, as soon as the office of Recorder became available he leapt at the opportunity. His experience and knowledge would have proved invaluable to the Chapter but sadly, a long term health problem which had been held in check would no longer respond to treatment preventing him from continuing as recorder and finally taking him from us on 16th July last, 3 months before his 83rd birthday.
Dennis was a literally a fount of knowledge, he was a staunch supporter of all his Lodges and Chapters. He was always willing to help and advise whenever called on, there are many Secretaries and Scribes who have benefited from his knowledge and computer skills. He was a personal friend and mentor to me. A gentleman and a true freemason. He will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by all those who were fortunate enough to have known him.
Lionel Higgins
Recorder
Albert Victor Chapter No.117