John R. Robert "Bob" West 1935-2023
John Robert "Bob" West passed away at his home on May 3, 2023 surrounded by his family. He was born on April 26, 1935 at Jones Nursing Home in Rupert, Idaho to John Amos and Mayme B. Johnson West. He grew up on the family farm started by his grandfather Robert West, as part of the Homestead Act in the early 1900's.
Bob started hunting at the age of 6 when he acquired his first BB gun. His passion for guns of all types, hunting, fishing, packing for elk and deer, camping, riding motorcvycles, and love for the outdoors continued throughout his entire life. He had many trophies of his game displayed in his home and loved telling the storiers of his hunting and outdoor adventures.
He attended Pioneer School from first through 7tyh grades and then Washington Jr. High and Rupert High School graduating in 1953. He was a member of the high school pep band playing trombone. He attended Idaho State University studying diesel mechanics and carpentry from 1957 through 1959 after completing 2 years service in the United States Army.
He was drafted into the United States Army in 1955 and hoonorably discharged in January of 1957. His service took him to the Southwest region of the U. S. which ignited a passion for Cajun traditions, culture, and music. He was a member of the U.S. Army rifle team winning multiple marksmanship awards. He trained National Guard troops in marksmanship, competed in rifle competitions, and traveled to many states in the South as part of his military service. He maintained a great love of the people and traditions of the South and had many fond memories of that time of his life. He and Shirley were able to make several trips back to to visit people and places that were special to him.
Bob married Shirley Davidson in June of 1958. The enjoyed a very special parternership for almost 65 years. He is survived by his wife Shirlery, their children John "David" West, and daughter Joan West Anderson (spouse Steve Anderson). Their son James "Jim" West passed away in 1991. Bob and Shirley's grandchildren and great-grandchildren were very special to him and include Kristy West Nukaya (spouse Codi). Jessica West Rodriquez (spouse Alex), Jennifer West, Drew Anderson, and Kylie Anderson. Great-grandchildren are Crew, Ezra, and Ender Nukaya and Rowan and Varick Rodriquez.
Bob was a multiple business owner, including a diesel mechanic shop, construction business, rental enterprise, and small farming operation. He enjoyed his work immensely and was known foir his attention to detail andf high expectations for quality. He built many structures throughout the Mini-Cassia area and various other places and enjoyed the challenge of remodeling homes, as well.
He served as a board member of Rural Electric/United Electric for over 30 years and was a long-time member of the Rupert Elks and American Legion. Bob and Shirley traveled the world taking many trips including Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, and the Panama Canal as well as all over the United States. They also traveled to South America, Costa Rica, and Chile with their children and grandchildren. Due to declining health related to Parkinson's Bob reluctantly retired from his board membership in 2018.
Bob maintained a large and beautiful garden for much of his life which was a great source of pride and the admiration of others. He and Shirley spent a great deal of time tending to and peserving fruits/vegetables grown in his garden and generously shared the products with many lucky recipients.
He was a frequent visitor to the local coffee shops after work and later in retirement. Bob love to visit with his friends, reminisce, and tell stores. He thrived on these connections and several Coffee buddies continued to convene with him at his home after he was unable to get out of the house.
A special tharnk you to Horizon Hospice and Mini-Cassia Hearst 4 Seniors for their wonderful caregivers. Their kind and compassionate care was greatly appreciated by Bob and his family.
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