Obituary of Donald Robert West

Donald passed away peacefully on Saturday January 14, 2023 at Kootenay Street Village in Cranbrook, British Columbia, with his family by his side.

Donald was born on December 2, 1931 at St Eugene Hospital in Cranbrook to Robert Edwin West and Elizabeth Laura West (Roberts/Morgan) (predeceased).

Donald grew up in the East Kootenay area, and worked in logging driving a CAT (which was always his dream job). Donald met The Martins, who became his adoptive family, Linden and Tory ( Ma Martin) (predeceased_ and brothers Kess, Robert and sister Patsy. He built a few of the roads around the Skookumchuck area of Ram Creek, White Swan/Lussier and Skyline.

Donald met Frances, the love of his life in Springbrook, married March 14, 1953 and they moved permanently to Wasa and raised their children Robert (Bob), Margaret, Chuck and Patty.

Donald then joined the workforce of Construction until his retirement in 1992. Donald in retirement did his wood working craft and critters. Donald’s pass times were hunting, hiking with family and friends, and at one point tried his hand at photography. He was known for a good sense of humour, and his storytelling. He had a huge heart and would help anyone who was in need.

Donald was predeceased by his wife Frances, daughter Margaret, Sister Mable (Lindberg), brother-in-law Norman (Lindberg), as well as brother Norman and brother-in-law Joe Qualtieri.

Donald is survived by his children Robert (Bob), Chuck and Patty and adoptive siblings Kess, Robert and Patsy, grandson Barry, sister Margaret Qualtieri, sisters-in-law Edye Kermack, Dorothy Woods, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family would like to thank the staff of Kootenay Street Village for their love and care of our Dad.

There will be no service per Donald’s request, a Celebration of Life will be held in May or June of 2023, exact date yet to be determined.