Robert L. West

1937 - 2022

West, Robert L. LONG ISLAND Robert "Bob" Louis West died peacefully on Thursday, June 2, 2022, surrounded by his family. Born on January 4, 1937, Bob was the son of Louis L. West and Aloysia Bischoff. After his mother's death, Bob was adopted by Dorothy Seelig West, his father's second wife, and Bob happily had a "second mother." Growing up in Seaford on Long Island led to an enthusiasm with boating. Bob served as mate on fishing boats and while a senior in high school enlisted in the Naval Reserve. Serving for eight years, he attained the rank of second class communications technician. Studying and practicing the violin was a part of Bob's life from age six, a practice he continued as he attained a Bachelor of Arts degree from Hofstra University. Knowing that teaching would be his career choice, Bob then pursued and was awarded a Master of Science in education with an emphasis in supervision. He began his teaching career at Harbor Fields High School as chorus director and general music teacher. Later, working in the Hicksville School System, he taught strings to all levels and conducted the orchestras at the junior and senior high schools, always striving to have his students convey the emotional components of a piece. His career culminated with his appointment as director of fine arts in the Hicksville School System. Throughout his years of teaching Bob always found time to perform, playing with the Massapequa Philharmonic Orchestra, The Merrick Symphony Orchestra, and other local groups. During this time he also continued to play piano, flute, and guitar, built a Schober Recital Organ and later a harpsicord. Bob made friends everywhere he went and would talk to anyone, about anything, for hours, treating everyone he met with kindness and respect. Bob enjoyed a full 30 year retirement exploring his many talents and continuing to pursue his numerous hobbies. He loved woodworking and made many of the pieces in his home. His model of the USS Constitution holds a place of honor in the living room. Combining wood working with his love of music led Bob to craft four violins and a guitar. He later turned his talents to bird carving. Volunteering at the Sayville Maritime Museum, where he helped restore historic boats and build new ones, gave him an opportunity to combine his many talents. Bob loved the outdoors, boating, snow skiing, target shooting, hiking in the Adirondack high peaks, camping, exploring parks and woodlands in Florida, and riding his teal blue and cream Harley Heritage Softail. Most of all Bob loved his family. He was a devoted grandfather and enjoyed watching his grandsons grow, teaching them all about music, woodworking, shooting, mechanics, boating and flying RC planes. His knowledge will live in the forever. He leaves behind his beloved family: his wife of 54 years, Virginia Ziegler West; his daughter, Jennifer West Curry; his son Robert C. West, and daughter-in-law, Catherine Reiszel West; grandsons, Ryan Curry, Nicholas Curry, Benjamin West, and William West; sister-in-law Patricia Ziegler; and niece, Wendy Smith. A memorial celebration of life will be held at a later date. To leave a special message for the family, please visit NewComerAlbany.com