William H. West

WEST, William H. Jr., of West Hartford, 94, died peacefully at St. Mary Home Tuesday, October, 23rd. He was predeceased by his wife of sixty one years, Ruth B. West, who died in 2003. He was born January 28, 1913 to William and Emma West and spent most of his life in the NYC metropolitan area. He graduated from Julliard School of Music and spent many years as a professional percussionist playing with most of the Big Bands and orchestras of the pre and post war era. During WW II he served in both the Merchant Marines and the U.S. Navy assigned to the recreation corps at the New London Sub base. From 1946 to 1963 he owned a drum shop and studio in NYC where he taught many notable drummers. After a serious accident, Bill left the music business and became a successful business man in the international container shipping business, retiring in 1985. Bill and Ruth resided in Southbury, CT. and St. Augustine, FL for many years before moving to West Hartford in 1995. He is survived by his two sons and daughters-in-law, The Rev. William H. West III and his wife Margaret of Old Saybrook, Robert E. West and his wife Gail of West Hartford, four grandchildren, Elizabeth K. West-Ewasko and husband Jeremy of Montpelier VT, Melissa W. Alder and husband Eric of Salt Lake City, UT., Abigail R. West of Holyoke, MA and John W. West of Havre de Grace, MD. He is survived by his brother Richard and his wife Robin in NY, and many nieces and nephews. He was also predeceased by his daughter-in-law, Christina P. West, in 1998. Bill will be remembered for his wonderful positive attitude, his sense of humor and the loving care and devotion he gave his wife Ruth during many years of her illness. He was a devoted family man who lived a long and full life. The family is grateful for their many friends who were so kind to Bill, and the staff at St. Mary Home who made his final years comfortable. There will be no calling hours. Interment will be at Fairview Cemetery, West Hartford, at the convenience of the family. Donations may be made in his memory to St. Mary Home Employee Scholarship Fund, 2021 Albany Ave., West Hartford, CT. 06117 or to a charity of the donor?s choice. Online messages of remembrance and sympathy may be made at www.molloyfuneralhome.com

William H. West

January 28, 1913 - October 23, 2007