White Party founder Jeffrey Sanker dead at 65
The "godfather of parties" had faced a long battle with liver cancer.
Words: Jamie Tabberer; picture: Sanker with Lady Gaga in 2009 (Instagram/@jeffreysanker)
Jeffrey Sanker, the president and founder of White Party Palm Springs, is dead at the age of 65.
The gay circuit party guru died last Friday after a long battle with liver cancer, reports the Washington Blade.
According to the publication, Sanker died at Cedars-Sinai Hospital with family members in attendance.
“We will continue to celebrate the extraordinary life of Jeffrey Sanker and the legacy he built”
In an Instagram tribute, White Party Foundation’s Chris Diamond said: “It is with heavy hearts that we inform you of the passing of beloved White Party founder Jeffrey Sanker. For more than four decades, Jeffrey’s zest for life and love of celebration drove him to create a safe haven for the LGBTQ+ community to come together and celebrate our unique individuality and collective magic.
“He was named the Godfather of Parties, and to honor his unforgettable life, the White Party legacy will continue in Palm Springs and Puerto Vallarta through the Jeffrey Sanker White Party Foundation. We will continue to celebrate the extraordinary life of Jeffrey Sanker and the legacy he built and shared with us all, through our future White Party events.
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“Thank you, Jeffrey, for all you gave to us. We love you, miss you and will continue to honor your legacy.”
West Hollywood politician John Duran meanwhile told the Blade: “Jeffrey was a long time friend. He was an iconic figure in gay history with his creation of the White Party. For many gay men, he created a space for them to find their tribe and sexuality. While he had his critics – he loved his gay community and left a lasting mark. So many of us found a place to belong because of his vision.“
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The West Hollywood-based businessman also produced White Party Entertainment circuit parties in the likes of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and Miami, Florida. White Party Palm Springs was commonly attended by over 30,000 party-goers.
Sanker was furthermore known for securing superstar performers at his events. Photos on his Instagram account through the years show him posing with the likes of Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande, Rihanna and Kylie Minogue.