Jack Alexander West

Jack Alexander West, age 79, passed away in peace on Friday, September 5, 2025 in the ongoing presence of family and good friends at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge. He was born on May 25, 1946 at Rush Presbyterian Hospital in Evanston, son of the late John Parker Tatman and Julie Jane Breeden Tatman. He is survived by 2 nephews, Darin and Brad Ortman, sons of the late Janis Tatman Ortman.

Jack grew up in Northbrook, IL and attended Crestwood and Maple Elementary Schools, Northbrook Junior High and Glenbrook North High School, where he graduated in 1964. Jack's early interest in photography, movies and creative writing developed during these school years.

He then volunteered in the US Navy in the summer of 1964. After basic training, he completed the demanding and strenuous Navy Seal program and was then sent to the Vietnam front lines as a photographer. He was later wounded in battle and received an honorable medical discharge in October 1966.

Jack then returned to Chicago, where he began his working career, which alternated between Chicago and New York City over the next 30 some years: 1966-1970 in Chicago; 1970-76 in New York City and then a return to Chicago in 1977. Jack then returned to Northbrook in 2002 as he approached retirement to care for and help his Dad who was in declining health.

During this period, Jack worked primarily as a delivery messenger for several companies in both Chicago and New York City. In addition, he also worked in Chicago for Marshall Fields and WCIU (Films) and MGM in New York City for 3 years from 1970-73.

However, Jack never lost his deep interest in photography, creative writing, films and media arts. Jack attended Columbia College in Chicago for 2 years and New York University in New York City from 1970-71. His love for films and media always rose to the top.

After his return to Northbrook, Jack joined the Village Presbyterian Church in June 2004. His faith journey renewed and his desire for helping others became his foremost priority during his retirement. He served the Lord through prayer and ministry and was a member of the Deacons, the video team, the parking marshal at major events and Pilgrimage renewal, a biweekly time for prayer and sharing his faith. In addition, Jack was a frequent scripture reader at the various worship services.

During this time, Jack worked part-time at Walgreens and White Hen in Northbrook and became a permanent resident at Crestwood Apartments in 2012.

Over these years, Jack's great smile, big heart, and uplifting spirit proved to be a huge Blessing to all whom he met! He served his calling well for his Lord! So we can say to Jack, "Well done, Good and Faithful Servant!"

A Celebration of the Life and faith journey of service of Jack Alexander West will be conducted at the Village Church (1300 Shermer Road, Northbrook) on Saturday, October 18th at 11 am. He, along with his parents, will be interred in the Memorial Garden at the church. A reception will follow after the worship service, In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to the Benevolence Fund at the Village Presbyterian Church, to help provide for disadvantaged recipients.