Miriam Elizabeth "Liz" West, 81, of Sandwich, MA, passed away on Tuesday, April 6, 2021 at Brigham And Women's Hospital in Boston. She was born on January 1, 1940, to the late Hjalmar and Maria (Takala) Leppanen in Albany, NY.
She was a homemaker, avid reader, bowler, lotto-player, and she really enjoyed selling Tupperware. Most importantly, she passionately loved her family, friends, and neighbors. She often sent care packages to the U.S. military, and was proud of her family's service. Liz volunteered throughout her life, she particularly loved helping elementary students with their reading skills.
You could always find Liz with a cup of coffee, and she was typically on the phone or chatting at the kitchen table with loved ones. She was a wonderful cook and baker, her chocolate chip cookies were always the ‘talk of the neighborhood’. Liz will always be remembered as being extremely selfless, thoughtful, and generous, and for her beautiful smile and infectious laugh. She was so proud of her children and grandchildren, and was happy to share her joy and delight with everyone.
We are very grateful to her friends and neighbors in Washington, PA and Sandwich, MA. She loved all of you and we can never express our gratitude for the support and friendship you gave to her.
Predeceased by her sisters Irene Allen, Marie Setford, Hellen Bellanger, and Jean Roy; and by her brothers Hjalmar "John" Leppanen, Reino "Ray" Leppanen, and Charles Carlson.
Liz is survived by her husband of 50 years, Robert M. West; and her beloved children, son, Robert C. West (and wife Claudia) of San Antonio, TX and daughter, Mary E. Rodgers (and husband William), of Fredericksburg, VA. She is also survived by her sister Ingrid Roy, sister-in-law Eva Leppanen, and sister-in-law Grace West. Tirelessly devoted Nana to Robert Ocean, Kaitlyn Elizabeth, Kyle Gregory, Joshua Allen (and wife Kareyn), William Joseph (and wife Olivia), and Matthew David; beloved Great Nana to Ellie, Ryan, Lincoln, and Eleanor. She had many nieces and nephews and their families who meant so much to her.
Private cremation is under the direction of Nickerson-Bourne Funeral Home in Sandwich, MA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to your favorite charity.
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