Ethel Lee White
February 15, 1953 - June 9, 2020
Ethel Lee White passed away peacefully on June 9th, 2020 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Our beloved Wife, Mother and Nana began her life sixty-seven years prior on February 15th, 1953 in Belfield, North Dakota. She was the fourth and final child of Frances Eve Woroniecki Cymbaluk and Michael M. Cymbaluk, who were both the children of first generation Ukrainian/Polish immigrants. Lee knew both the joys and challenges of growing up in a cattle ranching community of the Northern Great Plains; strength, grit, and joy were central to her character. She had fortitude, however, it was not the heavy or burdensome kind. It was energetic, cheerful and calm. It was engaged, joyful and loving.
As a young woman she left the ranchlands of her youth to carve her own path within the Mountain West. Completing college with a major in communications, she discovered and developed a passion and skill for the real estate business. When she graduated from the University of Utah, she became one of the first members of her family to earn a four year college degree.
On a quiet afternoon while she was working at the University of Utah art gallery, a young man came inside to install some of his work for a student show. They talked, and hit it off. He found the courage to ask her out. This man was named Robert Allison White Jr. He would become the love of her life and they married soon after. Together they built the life of their dreams, at the center of which was their three children and their respective circles of family and friends.
Lee's passion was for people. All her hard work, and perhaps every single act of her life, was an act of service, dedication and love. She expressed her love to her children through her presence as a dedicated and unwavering mother, and also by providing for her children's education and well-being.
Lee was a strong and steady rock to the members of her family. She was Advocate, Champion, Guardian—for her children, but also for her clients and so many others around her. She was tenacious and inexhaustible in her love.
Lee was beautiful. She had style. A little bit of lipstick, the right hat–that is all she ever needed. She had the easy elegance of someone who puts people first, above all else. We will miss her sassy sense of humor, her infectious dance moves, her knowing smile, and the calm as she walked with her chin held high to greet the day. Her life was tragically cut short by leukemia during a time of global pandemic. She still had so much vitality, pizazz, spunk, and bright love to spread. The world has lost a great Light. Those close to Lee are still reeling from her loss, while also feeling inspired to celebrate her life by emulating her character: her ability to strive to be her best self regardless of life’s headwinds and distractions.
She is survived by her husband Bob, her children Kristin (Jason), Bo (Molly) and Ben, her grandchildren William, Allison, Rowan, Aksel and Maia and her siblings – Roger (Paula) Cymbaluk, Margie (Donald) Jablonsky, and Larry (Marilyn) Cymbaluk. We take comfort in feeling her presence in the faces, inspired ideas and kind acts of her children and grandchildren, but she will be forever missed.
A memorial service will be held within the greater Salt Lake City area when the Covid risk subsides and conditions allow for safe travel and gathering.
Please check back for updated service information.
In lieu of flowers gifts/donations may be made in her name to Huntsman Cancer Institute.
In Loving Memory
I love you mom, You are the strongest, kindest, and most hardworking person I have known. Thank you for always having patience and understanding and for doing everything in your power to provide a good life for your family. You are my role model and an example of what I believe it means to be a good person. You taught me how to work hard and do what is necessary to help those around me, but to always make sure that I am making the world a better place in the process. I aspire to honor your life by living mine in the same way. Love, Ben
Ben White
Denver, CO
Lee was the love of my life. I miss her so and my heart aches.
Bob White
SLC, UT
We are shocked and saddened at the news of Lee’s passing. She was a good friend to us when lived up the street. She helped us sell our house! Our condolences to Bob and the rest of the family!
Maurie and Pat Luetkemeier
Alma, Mi
I always loved talking to Lee. She was one of my favorite real estate colleagues. I am so sorry for your loss.
Sheila Gelman
salt Lake city, Ut
Lee was a powerful force of love and friendship. When in her home she treated you as one of her own. She was a dear friend to our family now and always. Teddi and Lee were kindred And cherished spirits - I know they are camping and exploring the heavens together as great friends.
Kristen Hyatt Chubac
Salt Lake City, UT
Bobby, Kristin, Bo, Ben and families, Praying for comfort and peace, praying for blessings among the deep sorrow, praying that the glory of the Lord might be experienced during this difficult time. Sincerely and with love, Becky and Buddy
Becky and Buddy Tapp
Cary, NC
Dear Lee and family, It was so good to read I had a small part in bringing you and Bob together. You were a fun and efficient at managing the University Union Art Gallery. I was grateful that we were able to keep in contact over these past year. You were always kind and loving to me and always showed a genuine interest. I even got to meet some of your neat children, in a way your goodness will last for a long time thru them. Thank you for your talent and goodness. Rest in Peace my Friend. Ryck Luthi
Ryck Luthi
Salt Lake City, Ut
Our family is so fortunate to have known Lee. She was a wonderful mother, and not just to her own children. She provided a loving welcome, much tolerance, and many meals for our son, Christopher, over the years, and always had a kind word for Emily. I learned from her infinite patience, and can still hear her saying "they're just little boys - they'll be fine!". She was right - they have grown up to be fine men. I really think the only time I saw her flustered was when she drove off, only to find that Ben's soccer ball, but not Ben, had gotten into her car to go home. She was also a steadfast friend. When I needed to find a house for my paralyzed brother-in-law she held my hand every step of the way, providing both professional and much needed emotional support. I knew that Lee absolutely had my back. We are so sad that she is gone. She is in our memories and our hearts.
Nola, Wes, Christopher, and Emiy Sundquist
Salt Lake CIty, UT
Bob, Kristin, Bo, and Ben: It was with great sadness Jan and I learned of Lee's passing. We first met Lee when we bought your house on Federal Way in 2000. It is not often that the new owners become friends with the previous owners. Lee was very helpful to our family as we transitioned from Houston to Salt Lake City. This was no easy task and her support was very much appreciated. The friendship continued even after we moved back to Texas in 2010. Jan and Lee remained connected. We would always meet for lunch during our return visits. Graham remained in SLC. Lee was always there to assist if needed. We decided to purchase a house in SLC for Graham to use. This was no easy task given the SLC housing market was very strong. But Lee, with Bob's solid assistance, helped us secure a nice property in West Blvd Gardens. This would not have happened had it not been for her persistence and talents. Words can not describe our appreciation for Lee's help and friendship over the years. Our thoughts are with you. We had hoped someday Lee would visit our ranch. The invitation is open to all of you. All the best and please stay in touch. Cheers, Michael Abrams & Janice Erickson
Michael Abrams and Janice Erickson
La Grange, TX
Dear Bob and Family, I am heartbroken to read about Lee's death. I had no idea that she was ill so it's a shock. She was a very classy lady and a first rate real estate agent. She sold my cabin in Snake Creek and knew it was an emotional time for me. After the sale she showed up at my house with a book of pictures of my cabin. I still look at it and think about Lee. My thoughts are with you and I hope you can move forward with this great loss. I considered Lee a friend. Goodbye friend. Polly Potts
Polly and Dennis Potts
Salt Lake City, UT
Lee was a second mother to me in my elementary years! She always took such care and treated me like a second daughter. She was so beautiful, kind and smart! I am so sorry for your loss as a family! I am sure she fought for every second she got to spend with you. Send love and condolences.
Becky (Roberts) Collings
Sandy, Ut
Dear White family: I didn't learn of Lee's passing until some time after Teddi died, also in June. Teddi and I had the fondest memories of the time we were neighbors and shared similar experiences with our old houses and growing families. I don't know, but I doubt it's a coincidence that they died within a few days of each other. When I first tried to find Lee's obituary so that I could send you all a message I wasn't successful. It's also been a bit hard to write - so please forgive my belated condolences. I'd love to hear from any of you directly. Bless you all!
Kim Hyatt
Columbia Falls, MT
I am so very sorry for your loss. Ethel as I knew her was one of my most favorite cousins growing up. We spent many summers on the farm between my grandparents house and her house. We had so many fun and goofy times. Lots of laughing and shenanigans. I am very sad we never connected in our adult years but time, distance & life got in the way. My grandfather Bill Cymbaluk was Ethel's dads brother. I had thought of her so often during the years and always meant to connect but never got around to doing it which I now regret. We are 6 months apart in age. Rest in piece my fun & goofy cousin. Love Denise
Denise Hudson
Casper, WY
We are so shocked and heartbroken to learn the sad news. Lee was one of the kindest persons we have ever met. As we commemorate her, we see her warm, welcoming, friendly, and smiling face in front of us. She was our realtor for many years not just because of her expertise but for her trustworthiness and friendship. We grew closer as we share our kids stories and values in life. We will always miss her. May Lee Rest In Peace. Wendy and Zak
Wendy and Zak Fang
Park City, UT