Makena White: Biography, Age, Parents, Career, Death & Facts

Makena White was of Canadian nationality who worked at Surgical Sales. She was known for being the girlfriend of PGA golfer Jake Knapp. Makena White was raised in Canada in a close-knit family environment.

People who knew her described her as disciplined, independent, and highly motivated from a young age. During her school years, she actively participated in athletics and student leadership programs, which later reflected in her professional career.

Professional Journey and Work Ethic

Makena built her career gradually across sales, administration, and healthcare-related industries. Her transition from retail and internship roles to medical and surgical sales demonstrated her ability to adapt to demanding professional environments.

Colleagues described her as detail-oriented, reliable, and strong in communication, skills essential for roles involving healthcare products and client relations.

Her work in surgical sales required technical knowledge, professionalism, and ethical responsibility, which she maintained consistently.

Association With the Sports World

Although Makena was not a professional athlete herself, her life became closely associated with professional golf after she began dating Jake Knapp.

She frequently attended tournaments, practice sessions, and official PGA events. Her presence was noted by fans and media, especially after Jake’s breakthrough victory.

She remained largely private and avoided the spotlight, choosing to support her partner without seeking attention for herself.

Relationship With Jake Knapp

Makena and Jake Knapp’s relationship was widely viewed as supportive and stable. She was present during key moments of his early PGA Tour success and often appeared in celebratory moments following tournaments.

Public posts indicated mutual encouragement, emotional support, and shared travel experiences. Despite growing public interest, the couple maintained boundaries around their personal life.

Public Reaction After Her Death

Following the news of Makena White’s death, fans, friends, and members of the golf community expressed shock and grief.

Several tributes appeared across social media platforms, highlighting her kindness, positivity, and supportive nature.

Many emphasized her role behind the scenes, describing her as someone who uplifted others without seeking recognition. The golf community largely respected the family’s privacy during this period.

Privacy Around Cause of Death

No official cause of death was released publicly, and her family and close friends chose not to disclose medical or personal details.

Media outlets largely refrained from speculation, emphasizing respect for privacy. This decision was supported by many, particularly given the growing conversation around mental health, personal boundaries, and responsible reporting.

Charitable Impact and Legacy

The charities mentioned in her memory reflect causes that were personally significant to Makena and her family. Donations directed toward brain health and Alzheimer’s research highlighted her awareness of neurological health challenges, especially following her mother’s illness. These contributions serve as a lasting impact beyond her professional life.

Personal Interests and Lifestyle

Makena enjoyed an active lifestyle that included travel, outdoor activities, and adventure sports. Friends described her as energetic and curious, often exploring new destinations and experiences.

She valued meaningful connections with friends and family and frequently documented moments of travel, fitness, and companionship on social media.

Bond With Pets

Her dogs, Fergie and Nelly, were an important part of her daily life. She often referred to them affectionately and shared moments that reflected her care for animals.

Those close to her noted that she treated her pets as family members, integrating them into her routines and travels whenever possible.

Remembered by Friends and Family

Makena White is remembered as a private individual who lived with purpose and ambition. While she became known to the public through her association with a professional athlete, her identity extended far beyond that.

Her professional discipline, supportive relationships, and quiet presence left a lasting impression on those who knew her personally. Her life continues to be remembered through shared memories, charitable efforts, and the respect shown by those who honor her legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Makena White die?

She passed away on September 26, 2025, at the age of 28. The news of her demise was shared publicly by one of her friends. She shared a post on Makena’s Instagram account.

Who were her parents?

Her father’s name is Mark White. Her mother, Crystal, died in April 2022.

What was the cause of her death?

The reason for her demise was not disclosed on a public platform. ((Hindustan Times))

When did she start dating Jake Knapp?

She started dating Jake in August 2023, and they made their relationship public in February 2024, after Jake won his first PGA tour. Makena was often spotted supporting Jake during his matches and attending various events with him.

What was her last social media post?

On August 11, 2025, she posted a message for her boyfriend, Jake. She shared a photo with Jake on her Instagram account and captioned it,

“Year 2 of first fairway hugs & watching you live out your dreams Second season in the books, forever grateful to be on this walk with you, here’s to many many many more! I looooove you sweet boy, you make it so dang easy to be proud.”

What was Makena White’s educational qualification?

She completed her graduation at McMaster University in 2019. She pursued her graduation in communications and software engineering from 2015 to 2019.

What was her profession?

From September 2011 to February 2015, she worked in retail sales at Play It Again Sports in Ottawa. From September 2014 to June 2015, she was appointed as the athletic council president at St Joseph High School Athletics Department in Ottawa. She was a legal administrative intern at Colonnade Bridgeport in Ottawa in 2017.

In May 2017, she joined Labatt Breweries of Canada as a summer sales representative in Ottawa. She also worked as a campus activation manager and sales representative there.

From October 2020 to October 2021, she joined Hologic Inc., Canada, as a surgical sales specialist. After quitting her job there, she joined LeMaitre as a representative.

Has she been associated with any charity?

In her memory, her friend asked people to donate to Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic and the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund. Her mother was also treated at the memory clinic for Alzheimer’s disease.

Did Makena White have any pets?

Yes, she had pet dogs named Fergie and Nelly. She used to often share their pictures in her social media accounts.

What did she do in her leisure time?

She used to spend time with her family and friends. In her leisure time, she travelled to different places. She also enjoyed doing various adventure sports.

Here is the list of a few other celebrities who died in 2025.