Richard "Dick" West - Cremation Society of Virginia

Richard "Dick" West

Date of Death: July 12, 2020

Richard “Dick” Duane West, M.D., 82, went to be with the LORD on July 12, 2020, in Virginia Beach, VA. He was born in Warren, OH. He was preceded in death by his parents, Duane and Rose West, and his 2 sisters. He is survived by Joan, his wife of 58 years; his son, Richard D. West II (Melissa), his daughters Renee Anderson (Steve) and Michele Snyder (Gary); 11 grandchildren and 3 great grandsons.

Dick graduated from Warren G. Harding High School, Wheaton College, and University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. He served as a Medical Officer in the US Navy. Following residency at Presbyterian – U. of Pennsylvania Medical Center, he settled with his family in Virginia Beach, where he practiced general surgery for 35 years. During his career he served as Chief of Staff and President of Staff, VA Beach General Hospital; Chief of Surgery, Bayside Hospital and VA Beach General Hospital; Medical Director, Trauma Center, VA Beach General Hospital; Medical Director, Coastal Cancer Center; Chairman Executive Board, Virginia Beach Ambulatory Surgical Center. He was a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and Secretary of the Virginia Beach Medical Society. He was also a member of Medical Society of Virginia, American Medical Society, and Christian Medical and Dental Society. He was a member of the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees for Virginia Beach General Hospital and chairman and member of various other committees within the hospital.

Dick’s heart to help others extended into his personal time as he participated on several mission trips to St. Lucia and Grenada. He enjoyed singing Barber Shop, choral music as a member of the Virginia Beach Community Chapel choir, as well as attending various musical performances in the Hampton Roads area. He was an avid member of the local chapter of amateur radio and enjoyed communicating with operators from around the world. His hobbies were wood working, fishing, camping and spending time with his family.

Due to Coronavirus precautions, only a private family gathering will be held at this time. Memorial gifts can be sent to Samaritan’s Purse, PO BOX 3000, Boone, NC 28607, or go to https://sampur.se/3fsPRY5.

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When I stop to think of the high regard and appreciation for and friendship God allowed me to have with Dick, words fail to express my sentiment. Suffice it to say that his friendship will be irreplaceable. I have known some intelligent people. I have known some people with a wide range of interest and in depth knowledge of each. I have also met people who can relate to others regardless of their background or station in life. I have met a few people I would consider to be wise. It is, however, truly rare to know someone who is all of these and more. In addition to these, Dick’s love for his Lord and for his fellow man was always readily apparent. To call such a person your friend is invaluable. Personally, I think I will miss his story telling most of all. Joan, Richard, Renee, Michele and family I am certain that you all have the peace that passes all understanding. I pray that it will become stronger with each passing day. May our Lord keep you, and bless you until you see your husband and father and my friend again.

Dick's journey home leaves all of us, especially you his family, dealing with a void that used to be filled with a quiet subtle humor among many other special things. Sandy and I pray that the gracious love of Christ will soon bring you his special comfort. You can only imagine the quartet that is singing in heaven!

Good friend. respected colleague, thoughtful and considerate always. Positive and celebrated life each day.

Mrs. West -I am sorry to hear of your loss. Dr. West was a kind and skilled physician and I am proud to have worked with him at Virginia Beach General. I also enjoyed chatting with both of you at Spring Branch Community Church. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

I was a patient of Dr. West in the 1980's and '90's. I have never met a more compassionate, warm physician. He got me through two major surgeries, one minor one, and one medical emergency. He made me feel like I was the most important patient that he had when I was in his office or in the hospital. I thank God for him and his skills as a surgeon. My condolences to his entire family. I know he will be greatly missed, but I also know he is in God's loving hands. Thank you to his wife, Joan, and his family for sharing him with us, his patients.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Michele and Family, I am so sorry to hear of your Father’s passing. Praying for peace for your family. Hugs and Love

Our condolences to you Joan and the family. We in the Virginia Beach Amateur Radio Community will miss Dick at our meetings and events. He was always enthusiastic when he was with us sharing his knowledge and participating when ever he could. - President of VBARC

Dear Joan and the West Family, My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Dick was not only an excellent and skilled surgeon, but more importantly he was a very caring and compassionate man. It was a privilege being his colleague and friend. Please know that my wife and I will keep Dick and all of you in our hearts. Ray Troiano MD

Our hearts go out to the West family. Dickwas a wonderful role model, gifted surgeon and friend. We were so privileged to have known him.

Joan, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family as you gather to celebrate Dick’s amazing life. He helped so many. He will not be forgotten.

We have loved your family for so many years. Our hearts are with you in your grief of your husband Dick. The children and I as well as Charles (with dementia now), pray God's comfort and loving care to you all now. Joan you and Michele, Renee and Richard are in our prayers and hearts. Love, Sheila Smith-Marietta, GA

Dr West has always been a favorite of mine. I worked the VBGH ER for years and years. Dr West was always kind to everyone. The staff always liked when he had call in the ER...He will be missed.

Our love and prayers are with you in these difficult days. We are so privileged to know that this is not a final goodbye but that we will see him again in heaven! He has left a legacy of love for his wife, his children and grandchildren and those he touched to bring healing and help! May God bless you all!

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.