Richard William West

COLUMBIA - A memorial service for Richard William West, 96, will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 18, 2023, at First Presbyterian Church (Smith Chapel), with visitation following at the church in Jackson Hall. Friends and family are also invited to the burial which will be held in Fort Jackson National Cemetery on Friday, February 17, at 11:00 a.m.

Mr. West passed away on Sunday, February 12, 2023. Born in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, he was a son of the late Oscar R. West and Hilda L. Winkler West. He served in the U.S. Army and was a retired Region Sales Manager for the Penberthy Power and Processing Industry. Richard was a member of First Presbyterian Church. Richard’s unwavering faith in Jesus Christ was deeply personal. A founding member of Zion Lutheran Church in North Huntingdon, PA, he loved and served his Lord and the people around him in several other church communities as he moved from one place to another over the course of his life. He was a student of the Bible, Psalms 121 and 42 being two of his favorite passages.

A child of the Great Depression, Richard understood what it was like to trust in God for necessities, to work hard, and to sacrifice for his family and neighbors. His life was marked by exceptional generosity and compassion for those in need.

Richard’s greatest earthly treasure was his family. Although his manner could be misunderstood, his affection was genuine. Those who knew and loved him will miss his big personality and his bigger heart.

Richard was predeceased by his beloved wife of 72 years, Anna Mae Engwer West, his brother, Harold West, and two great-grandchildren, Tabitha Wright and Aaliyah Losper. He is survived by two sons, Dr. Robert West (Dr. Karen Reinhard) and Mark West, and his daughter, Carol Kurlowich (David); a brother, Kenneth West, and sister, Nancy Wilson (Joe). He is also survived by five grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to The Marfan Foundation at https://marfan.org/donate/.

Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, is assisting the family. Memories may be shared at www.dunbarfunerals.com.