Michael A West

Michael A. West was born on August 4, 1938, in Waseca, Minnesota, to Ralph Leland West and Mary Elizabeth West (née Brann). During World War II, the family moved frequently due to his father’s 44 months of service in the U.S. Army, before finally settling back in Waseca. After the move back to Waseca, the family welcomed two more children, Janet Friedrich, whose husband Bill passed away in 2020, and Tom (Francie) West. Despite the geographic distances between them, Mike and his family members remained extremely close and supportive.

Mike often spoke fondly of his wonderful childhood in what he described as the nearly idyllic town of Waseca. He remembered his time in the Boy Scouts, where he earned the rank of Eagle Scout, and the many days spent canoeing on Clear Lake — experiences that fostered his lifelong love of outdoors and boating.

At Waseca High School, Mike was a versatile athlete, participating in basketball, football, and track. After graduation, he attended the University of Minnesota, where he met the love of his life, Mary Thissen of Blooming Prairie, Minnesota. They fell deeply in love and were married 65 years ago, beginning a life filled with devotion, adventure, and mutual respect.

At the U of Minnesota, Mike earned a B.A. in History and then earned a Master’s of Hospital Administration. Mike’s professional journey was marked by hard work, compassion, and leadership. He began his career as a hospital orderly in Minneapolis and, through dedication and integrity, rose to serve as President and CEO of Akron General Medical Center. Throughout his distinguished career, Mike remained grounded in the values of service, humility, and care for others. Upon his retirement, the Akron Beacon Journal wrote a long article about his 17 years serving as leader of AGMC and noted that he was a “master of understated style” and that his “midwestern values and methodical approach had paid off for the hospital” and thereby the community.

Mike and Mary raised three children — Anne (Dan) DeTorrice, Nancy (Mike) Metzler, and Doug (Fay) West — and took great joy in their six grandchildren: Luke Metzler, A.J. DeTorrice, Mary West, Alyssa DeTorrice, Michael West, and Hannah Metzler, who passed away in 2014. Despite his demanding career, Mike made family his highest priority. He believed that memories and shared experiences mattered far more than possessions. He loved traveling across the country with his family, exploring the breadth and beauty of the United States together. He and Mary became avid boaters and spent much of their free time with family and friends on Lake Michigan and later Lake Erie.

Known for his patience, kindness, and sharp intellect, Mike left an indelible mark on all who knew him. His life was defined not only by his professional achievements but by the quiet strength of his character, his deep love for his family, and his enduring curiosity about the world.

Mike passed away at home in the early hours of February 7th, 2026. He will be remembered with love and gratitude by his family, friends, and all those fortunate enough to have shared in his remarkable life.

In lieu of flowers the family welcomes donations to the Grateful Hearts Fund at the Legacy Senior Communities Foundation (8260 Manderville Lane, Suite 300, Dallas TX 75231).