John "Spark" Parker White III

John "Spark" Parker White III

Beloved husband, father and grandfather -

John “Spark” Parker White, III, age 75, of Mechanicsburg, and formerly of Whitehall, passed away peacefully with his wife in his presence on Tuesday, December 14, 2021.  Spark was born on Monday, December 2, 1946, in Doylestown to the late John Parker White, Jr. and Virginia Clayton (Vernay) White. In addition to his parents, Spark is preceded in death by his brother, Joseph V. White.

Spark’s survivors include his wife of 51 years, Susan “Susie” Kay (Aumiller) White; his two children: Douglas “Doug” John White and wife, Lori, of Edgewater, MD, and Jason “Jase” Michael White of Mechanicsburg; his six grandchildren: Alexandra, Kelsey, Matthew, Samuel, Madelyn, and Maxwell “Max” White; several nieces and nephews; and his beloved feline companion, Norm.

Spark graduated from Whitehall High School as part of the class of 1964 and from Susquehanna University in 1976 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education.  He retired from the United States Navy, after 23 years of service; of which, seventeen years were spent in the Naval Academy Band.  Later, Spark worked for PHEAA serving as part of the VIP Collections Team.  Spark was an accomplished musician; during his time with the Naval Academy Band he played the tuba and the bass guitar. After his time in the Navy; Spark continued to play his chosen instruments in the Greater Harrisburg Concert Band and other community bands in the area.  He appreciated all music; but held his greatest appreciation for classical music.  Spark was a long-time member of St. Paul’s United Church of Christ in Mechanicsburg, where he was a member of the choir. In addition to music, Spark had a passion for railroading.  Loved trains, both real and model trains.  Spark’s family and friends will remember his sense of humor and love of making people laugh.  He will be missed greatly by his wife, his sons, band mates and friends.

Spark’s family will be celebrating his life privately.  Cremation was private.

Contributions in celebration of Spark’s life can be made to St. Paul's United Church of Christ, 626 Williams Grove Road, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055.

Spark’s family has entrusted his care to Buhrig Funeral Home & Crematory in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421.  Read Spark’s full obituary, view his photograph, offer condolences and sympathy, share stories and memories, upload photographs and videos, light a candle and sign his official guest book by visiting Buhrig.com.