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Dale West Obituary

WEST Dale E. West, age 57, passed away suddenly Saturday, April 4, 2015. Dale retired from a store manager position after 30 years of service at Publix to follow God's call on his life to be a part of a ministry that touched thousands of people and saved thousands of animals as he Co-founded Rooterville a Sanctuary and Life Reclaimed Ministries. Through these ministries, Dale worked tirelessly to share a message of mercy, compassion and stewardship for all of God's creation and the care of our bodies with a healthful, plant based lifestyle designed for us by God in Gen 1:29. Dale loved his Lord and Savior with all of his heart and was faithful to God's calling with all of his being. We're so glad for Dale knowing he is in glory but his passing has left a great emptiness here for the ones he knew and loved and the world is a little dimmer without his shining example. Dale loved helping others and protecting the vulnerable and the voiceless. His passion was evident, he loved deeply and cared sincerely for all life and he was always encouraging and building others up. Dale was a doer and he put all of his effort into his work, his care for others made this world a better place for us all. Dale is survived by his beloved wife, Elaine Gordon West; mother, Aljean West; daughters, Robin West Catbagan and Allison West Mattox; sister, Julie West and his precious grandchildren Grayson and Owen and other relatives. The family will receive friends Thursday, April 9th, 2015 at 5:00 PM at Island View Baptist Church at 900 Park Ave, Orange Park. A Memorial Service will follow at 6:00 PM. A celebration of Dale's life at Rooterville, where his heart was, is being planned and will be announced at a future date. Please visit his memorial page at www.williamsthomasfuneralhome.com. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION WILLIAMS-THOMAS DOWNTOWN (352) 376-7556 Please Sign the Guestbook @ Jacksonville.com

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

Published by Florida Times-Union on Apr. 9, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
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lawson cathy

May 6, 2015

Elaine,I'm sorry for your Loss May God Guide you through this time of sorrow ..Dale was a a Great person and he will Shine forever in the Hands of GOD, . MY Prayers and Thoughts are with you..Love Cathy Lawson Gainesville

charlene Taylor

April 12, 2015

Worked with Dale at Publix's on Roosevelt blvd jax.
He was very up lifting person always had encouraging words how to make your future better , he always would say never spend your raise save it and buy Publix stock.
He was a great person really enjoyed working with him.

Gary and Janice Harvey

April 10, 2015

We are so sad about Dale's passing. My husband and I worked with Dale and his sister at Publix when we were all very young. Our prayers going out to you and the families.

Amy Bailey-Dutcher

April 10, 2015

I worked for Mr. West at Publix as well. He was so fun to be around and everyone loved him. I am so sorry for your loss. He made this world a brighter place and I am sure is doing the same in heaven.

Paul Smith

April 10, 2015

I knew Dale from Publix Hale Plantation store he was my store manager he was a very likable and friendly person the West family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Shelia Nolen

April 9, 2015

I have nice memories of working with Dale at Publix. This is so sad that he has passed so young.May his love ones find comfort knowing that he is home with our father.

Pamela Back

April 9, 2015

My heart goes out to the family of Dale West. Dale was my store manager for a short time, he was always kind and thoughtful. He will be missed.

Jan Alber-Senn

April 9, 2015

Elaine, I am so very sorry for this shocking event..and I know the one person who could comfort you is gone. I am sending prayers and healing light your way....
Jan Alber-Senn

Jen/Freedom Tozzo

April 9, 2015

I am so heartbroken to hear of Dales death.I just saw him recently.He is now with Zoe.My heartfelt prayers are with each of you.He was a bright light that I will NEVER forget.

April 9, 2015

There is much sorrow in my heart for Elaine and Dale's family for their loss. I will remember Dale as a very kind hearted man towards people and especially animals. Dale will always be in my heart for dedicating his life to teaching love and respect towards God's creatures.

Janie Finck

April 9, 2015

To Elaine and to all his family and friends I was so very sorry to hear of Dales sudden passing. It truly is a huge loss for everyone and all the animals he loved & cared for. My heartfelt sympathy to everyone .RIP Dale.

Thea Wilcox

April 9, 2015

Dear Elaine,

I have not had the privilege of meeting either Dale or you personally. We have been friends through Facebook and because of our common interest in animals. Something drew me to Dale and as much as it could have been his warm smile, it was more likely to be the Holy Spirit, which dwelled in him. My heart and soul ache for your loss, this families loss, as well as the loss felt by a community. I ask in wonderment of our precious Lord Jesus why call the good people home before their time. The answer is not clear. However, my belief is God would have chosen for Dale to remain on earth, at your side, doing the good he did - for many more years. The Lord God weeps at the earthly loss of his son, Dale. And, yet, He has welcomed Dale into his Heavenly home. This is the peace we have, that through His (Jesus) grace and mercy we will, one day, sit at the Right hand of our Heavenly father. Until the day when you are reuntired with your Dale, the same Lord God will strengthen you. Love of God, family, friends, community will surround you and comfort you. Elaine, and those close to Dale; his children, his parents..., you will make it through this Valley because of the healing power of God.

April 9, 2015

So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Sheri Inks

April 9, 2015

Dale, you will be truly missed by so many people including myself. I got a kick out of your goofiness and liked your voice with that accent. I had the pleasure of watching you grow over the years with regard to the animals and your commitment to being vegan. You were always kind to me and I enjoyed our conversations. You loved and cared for my dear friend, Elaine and I will always be thankful to you for that. Rest and peace. I'm sure you are busy with the animals in heaven. You are missed, Sheri.

Pam Hoopes Saia

April 9, 2015

Prayers to the West family. I have found memories of Dale's smile and goofy Sports updates on the intercom after Publix would close. :O)

Melissa West

April 9, 2015

May his light shine forever.

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