Robert Rankin White PhD

WHITE, Ph.D., ROBERT RANKIN Robert Rankin White, Ph.D., 72, noted writer and historian of the early Taos Art Colony, died on July 17, 2014, after a lengthy struggle with Parkinson's Disease. Dr. White lived in his historic home near the University of New Mexico with wonderful caregivers, family, neighbors and cats. Dr. White served in the US Army in Vietnam, after which he returned home and worked on an advanced degree in hydrology. He lived and worked in Santa Fe before moving to Albuquerque, where he worked for the American Geological Survey. Following his passion for the Art of New Mexico, at age 50, he completed his Ph.D. in American Studies from the University of New Mexico. He published numerous articles, three books and was a noted speaker on the Taos Art Colony. He also served as President of the Historical Society of New Mexico. Dr. White is survived by his sister, Eleanor White Viebig and brother-in-law Richard Viebig of Houston, Texas; nieces, Peggi Bloomquist and Tracy Broyles as well as cousins and other loving family members and friends. The funeral for Dr. White will be held at Palmer Memorial Episcopal Church in Houston, Texas on Friday, July 25, 2014 at 1 p.m. A private interment will be held at Woodlawn Cemetery in Houston, Texas. Should friends desire, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson's Society or the charity of their choice. Please visit the online guestbook for Dr. White at FRENCH 1111 University Blvd. NE 505-843-6333