Jack Henry West, 73, passed away Sunday, November 8, 2020, surrounded by family in Vista, California.
He was born November 21, 1946 in Scott City, Kansas the fifth oldest of 19 children of Jack H. and Elizabeth J. (Kerkoff) West. He graduated from Scott City High School and shortly after, entered into the United States Air Force. Once his commitment to his country was complete, he moved to California to start a new beginning.
Jack met Valerie almost immediately after moving to California, where they fell in love and began a life together. He began working for Standard Oil and then with a plumbing contractor.
At this time he met a few lifelong friends, one of whom sparked his passion that moved him into the next chapter of his career, buying and selling Real Estate. Jack and Valerie then moved to Vista, California and started growing their family. Jack decided to start this own business, West Plumbing where most people will remember him as the best plumber in the yellow van and he also continued his real estate investments.
When Valerie passed away, Jack decided at the age of 40 to retire and be a stay-at-home father, which was the best thing he could do for his family. He was a very loving and attentive father. He purchased a new motorhome and took his family on an adventure throughout the United States. One of their longest journeys was to EXPO 86′ in the motorhome and the memories created during that time will be forever cherished. Most memorable would be our many quick trips to the Desert.
In the late 1990’s, Jack met Shelley for the first time and they quickly fell in love. Their strong love was revered by many. Jack was an amazing husband. Together they purchased their dream motorhome and traveled around the United States. Additionally, they made lifelong memories on their trips abroad.
Shelley and Jacks’ family continued to grow with the addition of grandchildren. Every child and grandchild felt his love and was forever changed by his wisdom and advice. Jack and Shelley decided to spend as much time with their grandchildren as possible. Jack was one of the most hands-on Papas anyone could ask for, he never missed any baseball games, school performances, birthday parties or any activity that involved his grandchildren. He taught them the importance of a strong work ethic and how to work with their hands but most of all how to love with their whole heart.
He was always the life of the party, and he was constantly sharing his wisdom with others. We will always appreciate his “Tell It Like It Is/ No Filter” personality and we respected that he always did things his way. We will forever be grateful for the true blessing of having this man in our lives and we will be indelibly changed forever because of him. The number of lives he touched is immeasurable. Here’s to a great man that served both his country and his family. Step by step forever forward until we meet again.
Outside of a dog, a book is a man’s best friend. Inside of a dog it’s too dark to read. -Groucho Marx
