Elizabeth White Called By Death

Mrs. Elizabeth White, 87, widow of Daniel M. White, a beloved resident of Lewiston for almost 72 years, died at St. Joseph's hospital at 5:15 o'clock yesterday afternoon of complications incident to age. Mrs. White was taken to the institution Tuesday when her condition became serious.

Mrs. White until one month ago continued her accustomed walks on Normal hill, finding delight in comparing the Lewiston of today with the struggling village as she knew it when she arrived.

For several years Mrs. White divided her time living at the home of her granddaughters, Mrs. Elizabeth Skillern and Mrs. Sally Lorenz.

Native of Ontario

A native of Exeter, Ontario province, Canada, born April 5, 1855, the daughter of Michael Ruddy and Elizabeth Ruddy, she came with her parents to the United States when 14 years old. Arriving in Detroit for their first stop, the family left by train for San Francisco, the trip requiring nine days. The train on which they traveled was the second to make the run on that line.

In May, 1871, the family arrived at Lewiston, and Mr. Ruddy soon afterward located at Genesee, where he engaged in farming.

Mrs. White received her education in schools of Lewiston, the only town offering such facilities. Mrs. White was wont to tell of having taken an active part in raising funds for the first school bell installed at Lewiston.

Her marriage to Mr. White took place at Lewiston, Jan. 1, 1877. Mr. White served the city as mayor, county commissioner and in other positions of trust, and at the time of his death, more than 40 years ago was president of the old Lewiston national bank. He also operated a ferry across the Clearwater river in partnership with John Silcott.

From Village To City

Mrs. White witnessed the growth of Lewiston from a village of a paltry few hundred permanent residents to a city of commercial and industrial importance. At the time of her arrival Nez Perce county as a part of Idaho territory extended to the Canadian line.

Mrs. White was past matron of Laurel chapter of the Eastern Star; charter member of the Tsceminicum club, and for many years active in community affairs. She was interested in the welfare of girls of Lewiston and assisted in their activities, especially with reference to basketball and the Camp Fire council. She was a member of the Christian Science church.

List Of Survivors

Mrs. White is survived by her son, William J. White, engaged in defense work at Vancouver, Wash., who will arrive here today; three sisters, Mrs. Margaret Vennigerholz, Moscow; Mrs. Sarah Elizabeth Elliot, Lewiston; Mrs. Clyde Parker, Los Angeles; five grandchildren, Mrs. Elizabeth Skillern, Lewiston; Mrs. Sally Lorenz, temporarily residing at Vancouver, who will reach here today; Mrs. Wilhelmina Eberhart, Wilmette, Ill., all daughters of the late Mr. and Mrs. William F. Kettenbach; Mrs. Mary Jane Grandon, Los Angeles, and Forst White, Santa Ana, Calif; also nine great-grandchildren.