David Kent West

1957 - 2015

David Kent West
"Kent"
Our cherished father, grandpa, son, brother, uncle and friend passed peacefully June 14, 2015, due to complications of cancer.
Kent lived life to its fullest, recently celebrating his 58th birthday surrounded by his loving family. He was born June 5, 1957, to David Lynn and Janice West. From an early age, Kent's talents in art, music and performance were evident. He enjoyed singing, dancing, and playing piano. He was a member of the Hillcrest High School class of '75 choir and drama clubs. Kent attended Dixie College, served an LDS mission to Belgium, and went to BYU. Kent's dedicated work ethic was appreciated in his health and benefit administration career.
In 1980, Kent married Jeannette Arnold, with whom he had two devoted children, Brittany and Jared. Although later divorced, Kent and Jeannette shared a sincere and lasting friendship, and most importantly a love for their children and granddaughter, Kaylee.
Kent had an adventurous and fun-loving spirit that brought him the fortune of diverse and loyal friends throughout the country. His 15 years lived in Southern California was spent building lasting relationships and memories. Kent had the rare gift of being a non-judgmental listener. He spent hours on the phone "lending an ear" to loved ones, or conversing over a well-served meal about anything from sports, to movies, to politics. People were drawn to him by his quick wit, thoughtfulness, and ability to love unconditionally and with true empathy. His spirit in every circle of family and friends will be forever treasured and missed.
Survived by: parents Dave and Jan West; daughter Brittany; son Jared (Nathan Starley); granddaughter Kaylee; siblings Pamela Call (Ron); Sandra Winegar (Wade); Stewart (Jennifer); Mindy Leo (Dave); many nieces, nephews and dear friends, including his special canine companion, Giacomo. Preceded in death by grandparents.
Tributes/Gratitude: Special thanks to Dr. Mark Honzel of California, who gave us Kent for 10 years more than we expected. Our deepest gratitude for the loving care provided by Dr. Claudia Goulston, and Kent's team of caregivers at the University of Utah Hospital and Hunstman Cancer Institute, as well as the staff at CareSource Hospice.
Funeral services will be held Monday, June 22, 2015, at 11:30 a.m. at the Ivy House located at 550 South 600 East. A viewing will be held Sunday evening from 5-7 p.m. at Jenkins-Soffe South Valley, 1007 W. South Jordan Pkwy (10600 South) and Monday at the Ivy House from 10:30-11:15 a.m. prior to services. Interment: Murray City Cemetery.
Online condolences may be shared at www.jenkins-soffe.com