In Loving Memory of Howard Dwayne West Sr.

March 22, 1948 – September 18, 2026

With heavy hearts and grateful memories, we announce that Howard West entered into his eternal rest on September 18, 2026. While his family mourns his passing, they take comfort in knowing that heaven has welcomed home a man whose heart was as big as his smile, whose kindness knew no bounds, and whose sense of adventure never grew old.

Howard was born on March 22, 1948, to Howard and Margaret West. He was raised by his loving mother and his stepfather, Felice Molatore, whose legendary love of wine and big boisterous laugh helped shape the warmth and humor that Howard carried throughout his life.

One of five children, Howard remained fond of siblings, Beverly, Betty, Sandy, and Jimmy (James). Family was always at the center of his world, and he was a devoted father to Patrick, Tammy, Howard, and Jason, and a caring stepfather to Josh and Mike. He was also a proud grandfather to 16 grandchildren, each of whom brought immeasurable joy to his life. He is survived by his wife, Patricia West, whom he loved beyond measure, sharing every joy, heartbreak, challenge, and celebration for 38 years. She

Howard grew up on a farm in Kerman, where he developed a deep appreciation for hard work, the outdoors, and animals of every kind. His compassion for creatures great and small earned him the affectionate nickname "Dr. Doolittle." Whether it was a guinea pig, ferret, bullfrog, bird, cat, dog, or iguana, Howard never met an animal that he couldn't befriend. He seemed to possess a special gift for gaining their trust and nursing them back to health. In fact, his children often joked that every animal in the house ate better than he did.

Among those many animals were the guinea pigs his young children lovingly called "whoopers," a nickname that remains a cherished family memory.

And speaking of eating, Howard had a well-known weakness for junk food. He never met a canned tamale, bowl of chili, Little Debbie snack cake, cinnamon muffin, or blueberry muffin he didn't like. Rarely seen without his trusty travel coffee mug in hand, Howard approached every day with caffeine, curiosity, and a smile.

For much of his working life, Howard dedicated his talents to building homes and workplaces where others could create lives and memories of their own. He took pride in creating things that lasted, leaving behind a lasting mark in the communities he served.

His creativity extended well beyond construction. Howard delighted family, friends, and neighbors with elaborate holiday displays he designed, built, and painted himself. His imagination also transformed ordinary spaces into remarkable habitats for his beloved pets. One memorable project was a floor-to-ceiling iguana enclosure complete with jungle murals, climbing trees, and even a custom-built ramp for an iguana that could not climb because of a physical impairment. If an animal needed help, Howard found a way.

Howard also possessed a beautiful singing voice and an impressive vocal range. He could effortlessly sing every harmony part in a Beach Boys song and had such remarkable inflection and character in his voice that many believed he could have made a wonderful radio DJ. Whether singing along to music or entertaining family with stories, Howard's voice had a way of capturing attention and bringing smiles.

Few things, however, matched Howard's passion for racing. He loved racing in all its forms and was a devoted fan of Dale Earnhardt. While many dream of becoming a race car driver, Howard actually made it happen. At the age of 65, he fulfilled a lifelong dream by becoming a racecar driver and the accolade of being the oldest rookie on the track, climbing behind the wheel of his beloved 0z Midget light open-wheel race car. True to form, he painted the car himself and proudly worked alongside his son, Howard, who crewed her with him. Together they created memories that became treasured chapters in the family's story.

Through all the years, Howard never lost his youthful spirit. He remained a big kid at heart, always ready to pop a wheelie on a shopping cart, spin donuts in an empty parking lot, challenge someone to a foot race, or leave them dizzy from a tire swing ride. He found joy in simple moments and reminded everyone around him that growing older did not mean growing up.

Howard's life was defined by family, hard work, generosity, laughter, and love. He taught those around him how to care deeply, dream boldly, and find happiness in life's simplest pleasures.

Though his earthly journey has ended, the lessons he taught, the homes he built, the animals he rescued, the songs he sang, and the laughter he shared will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

He is survived by his children, stepchildren, grandchildren, siblings, extended family, and countless friends whose lives were made brighter by knowing him.

As we say goodbye, we take comfort in imagining Howard reunited with loved ones gone before him, a coffee mug nearby, a race waiting to be run, and a few grateful animals gathered at his feet.

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever missed.