Ellen West

Ellen was born in Schenectady, New York to Shirley and Mort Achiron, and lived there until she left to study musical theatre at Syracuse University. After graduation she moved to northern Virginia where she began her long career in marketing and communications.

Ellen is survived by her loving and devoted husband Rich West, whom she met over 45 years ago when Ellen worked at the American Bankers’ Association and hired Rich’s production company to put beeps in a film strip. Over the years Ellen and Rich both worked in the business theatre industry and eventually started their own company, West Production Services, in the early 90s. Together – and separately - they created videos and staged business meetings and events for a variety of clients throughout the country.

Rich played in a men’s hockey league when they met and Ellen quickly learned to appreciate the sport, making an adventure of going to his games, which were often very late at night. They also enjoyed road trips, a good BBQ joint and hanging out at home with their beloved dog, Maggie.

Ellen found great joy in sewing and quilting. She loved her beach and no-beach quilting retreats with the friends she made through a local quilting guild where she served most recently as Vice President, and for several years volunteered to help organize the 70 vendors at the annual Quilters Unlimited show – a big job that Ellen handled with calm and a smile.

Ellen understood people and knew when it was time for a celebration or a quiet listening ear. She found humor and joy wherever she was and the twinkle in her eye

brightened every room she entered. Ellen was generous with her time, knew how to pick out the perfect, thoughtful gift and was not afraid to try out new recipes when she gathered people for her frequent, elegant dinner parties. Ellen’s attention to detail seemed effortless, whether she was producing a several-day business theatre event or designing and making one of her gorgeous quilts. She loved to sew, craft, read, play bingo and go to the movies, concerts and plays. And she cherished and nurtured her many friendships above all. Ellen had loads of dear friends who already miss her playful spirit, quick wit and crazy ability to plan, organize and conjure up myriad ways to have fun.

There is no service planned at this time. Later this year Ellen’s family and friends will gather to celebrate Ellen’s life and honor her memory. For now, in lieu of sending flowers, the family requests that donations be made to an organization of your choice or to one of the charities Ellen supported: Susan G. Komen, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or Daughters of Sarah in Schenectady, NY.