Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
About
FUNERAL HOME
Fred West Obituary
Fred P. West, Jr, 71, lost his battle with pancreatic cancer on July 2, 2021 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
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Fred West
Sponsored by CLOSED-Buckley Funeral Home - Asbury Park.
Lee & Dudley
June 27, 2022
We think of Fred so often and miss him dearly. Our memories of him we hold close to our hearts. So many of those memories bring laughter and joy. He was a great guy! Sending thoughts, prayers and many hugs.
Donna (Madonna Boles) Vining
July 19, 2021
I extend my sincere condolences to his entire family on the passing of Fred West. I attended St. Rose High School with Fred and was so saddened to learn of his passing after a brave battle against pancreatic cancer. I so admire the dedicated and generous legacy that Fred has left behind and I shall keep him in my thoughts and prayers. Wishing peace, the comfort of many,
fond memories, and healing to his family, friends, colleagues, and former classmates. Donna
Beth Vargo
July 14, 2021
I was in the same homeroom with Fred for 4 years at St. Rose HS. Remember him fondly, always a gentleman. My condolences to his family. He had a good life and left behind many great memories. RIP Fred.
Mary (Burke) Dunn
July 14, 2021
So sorry to read of Fred’s struggle with pancreatic cancer. Fred was a fellow St. Rose High School classmate. It sounds like he led a very full and happy life with his wonderful family. Sending condolences and prayers at this very sad time in your lives.
Linda Vola
July 14, 2021
I was just starting to reconnect with Fred for the first time since High School. I was so sorry to see this terrific person pass so quickly. I remember him as smart and so very nice. I can tell from the outpouring that he had a big impact on all who met and loved him. My deepest sympathies to his family and friends.
Carmine Magnotta
July 7, 2021
My prayers and thoughts go out to the West family. I worked with Fred for many years and everyday was unique. He was a loyal friend and an inspiration to those that new him. I will miss him, again sorry for your loss.
Carmine Magnotta
Michele F.
July 7, 2021
God bless you Fred and thank you for all the joy you brought to patients at MMC with dear Quincy.
Nancy Noaz
July 6, 2021
Dear Kathi, we were so saddened to hear about Fred’s passing. He was always a gentleman and a kind person. Praying for you and your family. Nancy and Golam Noaz
Kathy Elfner
July 6, 2021
Kathi, I'm so sorry to hear of Fred's passing. My heart goes out to you and your family. Hold tight to the memories.
Lee Warner
July 6, 2021
Fred's passing is not only a personal loss to me but a neighborhood loss and community loss as well. Fred was like a mayor of the neighborhood and many will miss him dearly. He was always there with a friendly tidbit about whatever might be on your mind or bothering you on any given day. Fred was like a second father to me. His advise on gardening, money, kids, education and sooo much more was helpful to me in so many ways. Fred always knew what was happening with everyone- i believe he still knows- and will always know- and will forever be looking down on us and helping us to find our way. My prayers go out to him and his family. Fred will be in my heart forever.
Phillip & Caroyn Moore
July 6, 2021
Dear Kathi, Meredith, Courtney and family, We are deeply saddened by the news of Fred's passing and offer our sincerest condolences to you during this difficult time. Fred was indeed a friend to all. His influence and humanity will be long remembered by those who were fortunate to have met and worked with him. God bless...
John Lord
July 6, 2021
Dear Kathy,
Needless to say I was sorry to hear about Fred. Loved his laugh, he always called me Johnnie, and he was larger than life. Prayers are with you all.
Linda Lutkevich (Jepsen)
July 6, 2021
Dear Kathi, Meredith, Courtney, extended family and all that loved Fred,
I am so sorry for your loss and sad to learn of Fred's passing to meet our heavenly Father. I will always and fondly remember Fred. From the many holiday gatherings and celebrations shared together, I truly enjoyed knowing Fred. We shared together a passion for good humanitarian work and he was always helpful to provide insights to the needs of others, helping me with my own casework for foster children and sharing his personal experiences particularly around education needs. I also remember his infamous salad and yummy contributions!! I am so very sorry for your loss and it is with my deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy that I send you my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. I hope you find comfort to know he impacted many, contributed to the good of others and was a life well lived!
Lori Fornicola
July 6, 2021
Dear Kathy and family, words can't express how truly sorry I am to hear of Fred's passing. I am glad to have had the opportunity to work with him. His smile and laughter will always be remembered.
Walter "Marty" Pawlukanis
July 5, 2021
From my teacher as a young student in the 70's, to a co-worker when I joined the OT Technology Team in 2007, I always remembered Mr. West and was very fond of the interaction we had as both student and co-worker and friend. May God Bless him and his soul, as well as all of his family, relatives and friends. We'll miss you Fred!!
Mary Johnson
July 5, 2021
My deepest sympathy to the West family. Many thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Fred was a kind and caring person who will surely be missed.
Mike Natale
July 5, 2021
On behalf of all the Brothers of his college Fraternity, Sigma Beta Tau, we morn his loss but rejoice in the friendship that we all shared with him.
Jeananne McFadden
July 5, 2021
Sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathies to the West family. We are all sharing this sad news. Fred was a true icon in our Colonial Terrace neighborhood. He will be missed but remembered fondly.
Francine Piekarski
July 4, 2021
Fred was the most kind, funniest and sincere man. He will be missed by everyone whose lives he touched with his insight and humor. May his memory be a blessing.
Rosemarie and Phillip Miller
July 4, 2021
we offer our deepest sympathy to Fred's family. He was a wonderful man and friend. We admired his work in education. May all your memories help at this time.
Bob and Paddi Gartner
July 4, 2021
Fred, you will forever be in our hearts and souls. We know you can "hear" this. We know that you are still present among us spiritually. Our faith assures us that we do not die; we transition to something greater. Rest in peace, Fred. You've earned it. We will continue to pray for you and your lovely family.
Betty O'Donnell
July 4, 2021
So sorry to hear this. Fred was a lovely man. Always enjoyed our conversations. Betty O'Donnell
Pamela Larsen-Kostin
July 4, 2021
RIP Mr. West. You were such a dedicated leader in our school district whether you were in the classroom, speaking with a parent about their child, or settling issues that were bus related & so much more! You did it all and with respect for others and kindness.
Nikki Nolan
July 4, 2021
Dear Kathy and Family. My heart goes out to all of you during this very sad time. Your Fred was such a wonderful man and over the years I enjoyed many conversations with him. My Bob often said out of all the people he took with him to the car auction, Fred was the only one he would gladly take with him every week. I’m sure they will have a lot to talk about in heaven.
July 4, 2021
Fred was a cherished member of our family for almost five decades. He will be sorely missed. Love to all, Jackie and Rich Diehl
Dennis Ferri
July 4, 2021
Rest in peace Mr. West. Thank you for working with me at Wayside Elementary School as my phys. ed. teacher. I'm grateful for your helping me exercise and stay fit, esp. as I am a person with Spina Bifida. You will be missed
Frank Ruggiero
July 4, 2021
I only just met Fred a few months ago since my wife and I moved into Colonial Terrace back in October. I was walking our dog by his house and Fred stopped me and introduced himself. It was wonderful that he knew exactly which house we were in and how I even parked my truck.
I liked him right away for the attention to detail. It was a brief moment we talked but he gave me all the history that he could of the neighborhood and how he only had to move next door.
Fred always waved as I saw him coming down the street with his truck. You couldn't miss that thing with the oversized tires and the print out of the dog on the window.
I'm really sorry to hear about Fred. I will never forget the hospitality he gave me upon welcoming me to the neighborhood. Please accept our sincerest condolences Kathi and family.
Angel Kames
July 3, 2021
Dear Kathy and family deepest condolences. Prayers and love to all. Fred's kindness and deeds can never be forgotten by those who he touched with his soul.
Mr. Angel Kames
Diane Rosen
July 3, 2021
My heart is heavy with sadness and loss over the passing of Our darling Fred. He was the best of the best in every way ..a devoted loving husband, a wonderful dad to Meredith and Courtney and his precious grandchildrenand a wonderful friend to all who knew him. I miss him so very much. Rest In Peace daring Fred❤Ooxxdiane and Donald Rosen
Jodi Witt
July 3, 2021
My sincerest condolences to the entire family on your deep loss. He sounded like a wonderful man. May he rest in peace.
Showing 1 - 33 of 33 results
Make a Donation
in Fred West's name
Memorial Events
for Fred West
Funeral services provided by:
CLOSED-Buckley Funeral Home - Asbury Park509 2nd Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712
How to support Fred's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Fred West's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
