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Robert White St. Helena: A Purpose-Driven Life in the Heart of Napa Valley

About Robert White

Robert White’s inspiring journey is a testament to how perseverance, service, and faith can shape an extraordinary life. Born in the scenic city of Vancouver, Canada, Robert spent his early years surrounded by lush forests and coastal beauty. But it was his teenage move to Napa Valley, California, that would set the foundation for a lifetime of purpose. St. Helena, in particular, would become a central chapter—both personally and professionally—in his story.

Before entering college, Robert embarked on a bold adventure: a gap year that saw him working in remote oil fields in the Arctic and logging camps deep in the wilderness. These experiences tested his endurance and built the work ethic that would define him for decades to come. They also laid the groundwork for a career built on discipline and determination.

Robert attended Pacific Union College in Angwin, a peaceful town perched above the vineyards of Napa Valley. It was during these college years that he met Celeste Keith, his future wife. Their wedding in St. Helena marked the beginning of a lasting union—over 40 years of love, shared purpose, and mutual encouragement. Together, they built a life rooted in family, faith, and community.

Initially, Robert worked in the wine industry, including a formative role at Stags Leap Wine Cellars. Living on a vineyard and ranch near St. Helena gave him a deep appreciation for the land and the people who cultivate it. Yet, despite the success he found in the world of wine, Robert felt a deeper calling: medicine.

Driven by a desire to help others in their most critical moments, Robert went to medical school and eventually completed his residency in General and Trauma Surgery at San Joaquin General Hospital and the University of California, Davis. Upon returning to Napa Valley, he joined Queen of the Valley Hospital as a trauma surgeon. There, he helped develop and lead a trauma program that would receive certification from the American College of Surgeons—a major step forward for regional emergency care.

Robert’s leadership continued when he became Director of Surgery at Providence. His most ambitious project during this time was helping establish a Level II trauma center at Providence Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital. He remains active in the operating room today, performing emergency surgeries and mentoring the next generation of doctors.

Outside the hospital, Robert has lived a life of service. He’s worked on real estate development projects with his father-in-law, coached youth sports, and volunteered with the Salvation Army and other faith-based organizations. His passion for addiction recovery and trauma prevention has touched countless lives through outreach, mentorship, and mission work.

Whether on the front lines of trauma care or guiding young leaders through sports and faith, Robert White’s life is defined by dedication, integrity, and service.


About St. Helena

St. Helena is a jewel of Napa Valley, known for its welcoming charm, world-renowned wineries, and breathtaking landscapes. From tree-lined Main Street to the rolling vineyards that surround it, St. Helena offers the perfect blend of small-town warmth and cultural richness. It’s a place where people come to slow down, connect with nature, and build meaningful lives. For Robert White, it has been a source of inspiration, community, and purpose for decades.