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Michael Patrick West

1951 - 2017

Michael Patrick West obituary, 1951-2017

BORN

1951

DIED

2017

Michael West Obituary

Michael Patrick West entered the world on June 15, 1951 in Conrad, Montana. He was the 2nd of six children born to Pat and Marjorie West. The family struck out for Alaska in 1959, settling in Douglas, where he attended St. Ann's School and Juneau Douglas High School. On this peaceful island, many lifelong friendships were born.

As a boy, Mike loved playing softball, basketball and running around Sandy Beach. His high spirited hi-jinx made him a natural at terrorizing Island residents as Vice President of the original Douglas Mafia. He seriously took his responsibility by ensuring the club was stocked with beer and cigarettes. Rumor has it small amounts of each were liberated from boats preparing to run up the Taku River for the weekend.

Peeling potatoes at Mike's Place for 50¢/5 gallon bucket was his first job. It was there that he had the thrill of meeting 'The Duke'- John Wayne. Perhaps, as a result, Mike always looked good in a cowboy hat.

A US Navy Vietnam Veteran, Mike resumed civilian life working in Prudhoe Bay, Douglas and Portland. Fishing, shrimping and crabbing in Alaska and Oregon allowed Mike to indulge his lifelong love for the sea. He also worked in construction and maintenance industries. While working, his gregarious demeanor allowed him to meet a few other celebrities in these fields, most notably; members of 'Deadliest Catch' and Arnold Schwarzenegger. Wherever he went, adventure and a few good stories were sure to follow.

September 10, 1980, Mike proudly welcomed his son, Will West, in the delivery room by catching him like a fast ball.

An avid reader, history fascinated Mike and he never stopped learning and enjoying books and documentaries. Travel for Mike and Shannon often included historical sites and live blues music. Boston and Portland were favorite spots.

A deeply compassionate man, Mike enjoyed life with a childlike wonder, genuinely and without restraint. His love of children was easily returned. Numerous kids he once babysat may now have children of their own and he is often referred to as Uncle Mike to this day. As the custodian for Gastineau School, to those children - he was their Mr. Mike.

Mike passed away peacefully at home in the early morning hours of May 6, 2017 after a nine month struggle with cancer. He was preceded in death by his parents, Pat and Marjorie West, and his two dear sisters: Teresa and Colleen.

He is survived by: his son, Will West; wife, Shannon Devon; sister, Mary Cargill; brothers, Bill West (Lori) and Tom West (Shannon). Nieces and nephews: Erin West, Wesley Block, Waylon Waddell, Carson Cargill, Chris Harmon (Samantha), Dillon West (Breanna), Devon West. Great nephew and nieces Tate, Gracie, Rachel, Soulstis, and Aella.

A celebration of life will be held July 30, 2017, at Sandy Beach, log cabin shelter from 1-6pm with hamburgers/hotdogs and beer/sodas provided. Please consider bringing salads, chips, desserts. Kids, dogs, cowboy hats and aloha shirts are encouraged.

Mike's signature line was guaranteed to make us laugh; 'Glad you had a chance to see me!' Indeed we were. Your friendship and stories have blessed us with laughter for years to come. You will be missed.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Juneau Empire from Jun. 30 to Jul. 29, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael West

Not sure what to say?





Melissa Henry

May 5, 2018

My mom died 2 munths ageo mikes x wife of Cancer and all her frinds have died allso of the same why can we get somthing to stop this cancer I miss my mom and a lot more pepel to

Carol Smith

August 5, 2017

Aw, Mike. I had been thinking a lot about you and wondering where you went off too after you left Portland. Sounds like you were happy, and for that I'm glad. The group of us had fun, even though they probably weren't the best of times. I'll pass the word on to the old crew that's still around that I can talk to and we will see you on the other side. We were indeed, glad to get to know you. Wishing your family faith, peace and love.

Dave Smith

August 5, 2017

Bless your time on earth..save a spot for Dave and I
We love and miss you

Nancy Marshall-McKeown

July 27, 2017

Regrettably I didn't know you for long Mike; however, simply being in your presence and feeling your vibration told me all I needed to know about you - that you were a good soul and still are...may you continue your journey in light and LOVE!

July 20, 2017

My sincere sympathy to your family. May the God of all comfort be with your family in your time of grief.

July 13, 2017

My sincere sympathy to your family. May the God of all comfort be with your family in your time of grief.

MaryAnn Hastings

July 11, 2017

I am saddened to hear of Mike's passing. May the good Lord bring Peace and comfort to the West Family. Rest In Peace, Mike.

July 11, 2017

Sorry to hear of Mikes passing, I hadn't seen him for many,many years,but fond memories from the 70s. May God bring you comfort!

Rondi Church Smith

July 11, 2017

So sorry for your loss. Strength to the family

Linda Constantine

July 6, 2017

I was so sad to hear of Mike's passing. I guess we all gotta go sometime, and if Mike taught us one thing, it was this...Have fun while you're here! Happy trail, my friend.

Stella Taug

July 6, 2017

One of a kind. I'll miss you, Mike.

Toni Blas

July 6, 2017

What a beautiful memorial. I am so glad I was able to see him two years ago on our trip to Alaska. Prayers for peace for your family.

Lorene Klassen

July 5, 2017

Nice tribute to Mike, Shannon. Wish I could have met him. Sending love and hugs ❤

Lisa Parr

July 5, 2017

Mike was a true friend , always had a smile, was like a big brother, I will miss you terribly..

July 3, 2017

May you rest in peace Mike.My thoughts are with you Shannon and West family. Your friends always Linda & Sarge

July 2, 2017

Tom, Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Becky and Mike Allison

July 2, 2017

May the God of all comfort strengthen the family during this time of deep sorrow. Those who pass on, God keeps in his memory because they are precious in his eyes. My sincerest condolences. Psalms 116:15

July 1, 2017

Mike was a wonderful and kind fun loving man. He cared about others. I will miss his good humor and his smile.

Jeff Hill

July 1, 2017

I was greatly saddened by the news of Mike's passing. Rest in Peace Mr. West.

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