Derek Lee West

Derek Lee West, 44, of Escondido, California, passed away on September 22, 2025. Born in Burlington, Wisconsin, Derek lived a life shaped by service, marked by pride in his Wisconsin heritage, and enriched by the many passions he carried throughout his life. He graduated from Burlington High School in 1999. On July 4, 2004, he married Julie Czajkowski, and together they welcomed their daughter, Evangeline (Evie). Derek served nearly 17 years in the Army National Guard, attaining the rank of Sergeant First Class. He deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (2007–2008) and was honorably discharged in 2014. His military career was a central part of his life. He was inducted into the Honorable Order of Saint Barbara, completed advanced training with the 32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team including the Small Arms Master Gunner Courses (Basic and Heavy Weapons), and was named a Distinguished Honor Graduate for his outstanding performance. Derek especially valued training and mentoring younger soldiers, and his service remained the core of his professional identity. In 2011, Derek earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Post University and went on to build a career in sales. He had a lifelong love of wrestling, competing from childhood through high school, and carried that competitive spirit into his other interests. Derek enjoyed cars, motorcycles, and cheering on his Wisconsin teams - the Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Brewers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Wisconsin Badgers. He never lost his taste for Wisconsin traditions like cheese and brats. Derek is survived by his wife, Julie Czajkowski West; his daughter, Evangeline (Evie) West; his brother, Bryan West, and Bryan's wife, Mollie; three nieces; two nephews; his aunt, Tammi Endemann; his great-aunt and great-uncle; and numerous cousins. He was preceded in death by his mother and grandmother. A burial with military honors will take place on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at 1:15 p.m. at Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, California.