My friend Matt White died this week.

My good friend Matt White died while trying to get help for his wife. It is a shockingly sad and tragic story that is still unfolding and will be doing so for years to come. Story here. 

Matt was a most loyal and trusted friend, and we were teammates on Penn's hoops team in the late 70s, and I will miss him very much. On the court he was a cross between "Mr Spoke" and "The Terminator" and everywhere else he was the most gracious yet invigorating person you'd ever meet. There was no topic of conversation for which he didn't have an opinion. He taught me a lot especially about perseverance and loyalty. I pray for strength, peace and guidance for his wonderful children and for the recovery of his wife. There is so much more I can say and in due time I will. 

Below is a copy of his obituary.

Matthew Preston White

Matthew Preston White died Feb. 11, 2013 suddenly at home. Mr. White was born in New York City to Howard J. and Elizabeth (nee Wangler) White, Jr. He was raised primarily in Carderock Springs, Bethesda, MD. He graduated from Choate, The University of Pennsylvania and Wharton Business School with his MBA. He was the center for Penn in their Final Four appearance in the 1979 NCAA tournament. He had a 12 year professional basketball career playing primarily in Spain. After basketball, he was a technical writer for a software company. He enjoying gardening and botany, played guitar and piano, loved canoeing, playing basketball with friends, enjoyed the beach, crossword puzzles, cycling and barbequeing at his home. He was still involved with Penn Athletics by attending countless games and periodically helping to coach. He was beloved by his family and friends.

Mr. White is survived by his wife of over 25 years Maria Reyes Garcia Pellon of Media, his children Matthew A. White of Philadelphia and Ana E. White, Lafayette College, his sister Sally (Richard) Bub of Kinnear, WY, his brother Michael H. (Nancy) White of Poolesville, MD and numerous nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to his Memorial Service on Monday, March 4 at 11:00 AM in Trinity Episcopal Church Chester Rd. and College Ave., Swarthmore, PA.

In lieu of flowers contributions to Maria Reyes Defense Fund c/o Vicki Herr, Esq. 14
South Orange St. Media, PA 19063 would be appreciated.