Obituaries

Richard West

March 31, 1924 - February 16, 2021

U.S. Veteran

Burial Date February 16, 2021

WEST: Richard H. West, 86 of Waterford, passed away February 16, 2021 at Beechwood Rehab in New London. He was born March 31, 1924 in Roanoke Rapids, NC the son of the late Henry and Fanny (Reaves) West, the youngest of nine children. He was predeceased by his first wife, Gloria (Pennella) West who passed away in 1980, whom he had four children. He was also predeceased by his second wife, Patticia (Whitty) West, who passed away in 2019. Richard spent 20 years in the National Guard and 9 years in the Coast Guard which he was very proud of. He received numerous awards and accolades during his service. He Graduated from the University of New Haven with a Master degree in Criminal Justice. While working as a police officer with the City of New London Police Dept. and going to school. He worked his way up to the rank of Captain, retiring in 1991. He enjoyed traveling, camping, American History, photography, researching his family heritage, and loved looking at maps. Spending time with his family was most important. He adored his grandchildren and never missed an opportunity to spend time with them. Richard was an avid fan of the Boston Red Sox, John Wayne and Western movies. Richard was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He is survived by his five children, David West (fiance’ Patty Long) Brain West and wife Maria, Stephen West and wife Nancy, Diane West and Michael Whitty and wife Debra. He had 13 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. His family would like to thank the staff at Beechwood Rehab for their efforts during the COVID pandemic of keeping him connected with weekly video calls with his family. All funeral services will be private, and interment, with military honors are private. Donations in his memory to, the New London Police Dept., 5 Governor Winthrop Blvd., New London, CT 05320.