How did Makena White’s mother die? Donations made to Bruyère Brain Health in honor of Makena’s death have the answer

Makena White, the late girlfriend of PGA Tour professional Jake Knapp, passed away at the age of 28. In the wake of her death, donations in her memory have been directed to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic and the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund, causes that held deep personal significance for her and her family. According to People website, White grew up in Canada, and attended McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, before going on to work in medical device sales.

White’s mother, Crystal, played a central role in her life. Crystal began receiving care at the Bruyère Clinic in 2018 and was eventually diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. She passed away in 2022. White shared her grief and love for her mother on Instagram, writing, “01/08/53 - 04/02/22 I hope heaven has a dance floor.”

Over the years, White celebrated her close bond with her mother through heartfelt posts, including a Mother’s Day tribute: “Happy Mother's Day to the cutest lil lady out there! Thanks for putting up with me, I seriously have no idea how you do it! LOVE YOU LITTLE DUDE.”


The Bruyère Clinic, known for supporting individuals and families affected by neurodegenerative conditions, became a vital part of the family’s life during Crystal’s illness.

White also shared a special relationship with her father, Mark White. On his birthday in 2018, she posted, “The strongest, funniest, most selfless person in the entire world. I am so lucky to have grown up with you by my side. Happy Birthday Marky Mark, you will always be my idol.” A year later, for Father’s Day, she wrote, “My hero, my homie, my coach and above all, my best friend. Happy Father’s Day Dad, you & me against the world.”

Makena White, 28, tragically passed away just days before the Ryder Cup, leaving her boyfriend, PGA Tour professional Jake Knapp, and loved ones heartbroken. In her memory, donations have been made to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic and the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund. Knapp and her friends have shared heartfelt tributes.