Heath White, a cherished figure in Western North Carolina's outdoor recreation scene and co-founder of Zen Tubing, died on December 11 at the age of 54. The Asheville Citizen-Times reported that he suffered complications following a heart transplant.
White grew up in Asheville and his connection with the region's waterways began in the 1970's. His childhood memories were filled with kayaking and canoeing adventures down the French Broad River alongside his father, according to his obituary. As he grew, so did his passion for whitewater, working as a raft guide across the country for several years.
In 2012, White, along with his wife Jennifer Ditzler, launched Zen Tubing, a tube rental and shuttle service on the banks of Asheville's French Broad River. The two were committed river stewards and took active roles in conservation efforts with local organizations, including Riverlink and Asheville Greenworks. Ditzler died of cancer in 2021.
A Celebration of Life Service is scheduled for December 27, 2023, at 2 pm at Glory Tabernacle Church, located at 1221 Sweeten Creek Road, Asheville, NC 28803. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Black Mountain Children’s Home through www.blackmountainhome.org.
