Fred P West Jr.

Fred P. West, Jr, 71, lost his battle with pancreatic cancer on July 2 surrounded by his loving family. Fred was the son of the late Fred and Augusta West. He was married to the love of his life and best friend, Kathi, for 48 years.
Fred was a lifelong resident of Ocean Township. In his pursuit of excellence and leadership in education, he earned a bachelor's degree (Kean), two master’s degrees (Kean and Georgian Court), and significant credits towards a doctorate (NYU). Fred devoted his professional career to the Township of Ocean Public School system, teaching adapted physical education, leading the PE, Music, and Nursing departments, and finally serving as the Assistant Principal of OTHS. His dedication to the field of adapted physical education stretched beyond Ocean Township, as he traveled the country to broaden access to the program.
Fred was unmatched in his handiness around the house. He would receive frequent calls from friends and family asking for tips on how to fix just about everything, and he could be counted on to know a solution and have the right tool to borrow. In his early career, Fred had his own construction company, notably designing and building their family home. Always the provider, Fred spent many weekends in the 80’s plowing snow for local businesses while teaching full time and raising two small children. Never one to sit still, he embraced new hobbies at every turn, completing the NYC marathon in 1978, fishing with his friend Joe in retirement, and adding unnecessary accessories to his truck during any downtime. He had a passion for cooking for his family, and was known for his homemade pizza. An avid golfer, he could be found on the course with his faithful foursome, sporting the latest golf gear. He continued his life of service to the community in retirement, volunteering at Monmouth Medical Center with his trusted companion, Quincy, easing patients’ woes with puppy snuggles.
Fred loved to be with his family above all else. Family celebrations centered around recounting decades of fond memories and creating new ones with his granddaughters. In addition to his wife Kathi, Fred is survived by his two daughters Meredith Heeter (Shawn) and Courtney Maguire (Tim), his beloved granddaughters Lainey, Natalie, and Lia who brought him endless joy, and his dear sister Patricia Perry (Joseph). Beyond his devotion to his family, he also greatly valued his enduring relationship with his colleagues, friends, and neighbors. His family is grateful for the care and compassion of the Visiting Nurse Association of New Jersey and encourages donations in his memory.
Relatives and Friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday July 6, 2021 at 11am in St. Michael's Church, West End NJ with Interment following at Monmouth Memorial Park, Tinton Falls NJ. There are no public visiting hours. Buckley Funeral Home Asbury Park is in charge of arrangements. To leave condolences please visit: www.BuckleyFuneralHome.net