Roberta White's Obituary
Roberta White died on January 16, 2016, following a serious stroke. Born Roberta Cohen in Chicago, IL on December 30, 1927, her family relocated to Minneapolis, Minnesota when she was a young child. She graduated from North High School and was introduced to her future husband Mandell White by her brother Alvin shortly after their return from WWII. Roberta and Manny were married in Minneapolis on June 1, 1947 and they enjoyed a warm and lasting bond that spanned over 62 years. Their early years were spent creating and building a series of successful businesses in which she played a key operational role. She was the glue that held everything together. At the same time, she was a hands-on mother of three children all born in Minneapolis: Stewart, Francine, and Randy. She performed her family and business work quietly, and without fanfare, as it was not her nature to boast. In 1961, the family moved to Tucson to begin a new adventure in yet another business. They established the Arizona Academy of Beauty in 1962 and had three locations at their peak. Roberta and Manny enthusiastically embraced the Tucson culture and enjoyed many lasting friendships within the community. They were members of Temple Emanuel for over 50 years and were active donors to local charities. Carlsbad, CA became a second home for Roberta and Manny, where they spent many summer months. Roberta was thrilled to live in two wonderful spots. Among her favorite activities, she became an avid tennis player and golfer, and even learned to ski. Roberta was smart, beautiful, and elegant. But perhaps her greatest gift was being a warm and caring wife, mother and grandma. Her hand in shaping the character of her three children and seven grandchildren was special and lasting. Above all else, she was devoted to the needs of her family. She was and will remain loved by all who knew her - family, friends, and caregivers alike. Special thanks to her care staff at TMC and Casa de la Luz, and especially her home care “team Roberta.”
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