Richard F West

Mr. West served in the US Army for 3 years and under the GI Bill, he attended Brooklyn Polytechnic Institute. He was chosen by the engineering firm, Stone & Webster in the 1960s to learn computer program coding. He eventually moved on to become a programmer for Time, Inc. and a systems analyst for the Swiss Bank in New York. Mr. West headed the development of a program for the bank' Letters of Credit. He also was the published author of several contemporary spy novels and short stories, created many stained glass pieces, and was an accomplished artist. He was an avid gardener. He and his wife, retired to Bradenton, FL in 1989. He will be remembered for his intellect, creativity, humor and thoughtfulness..

Mr. West is survived by his wife of 55 years, Jeanette; two daughters, Mrs. Cynthia Shang of Chantilly, VA; Mrs. Diana Nguyen of Warwick, NY; and a son, Richard W. West of Burlington, NJ. He also leaves eight grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, William and Margaret West and his daughter, Mrs. Valerie Blanchard, Jr.

Robert Toale and Sons Funeral Home is entrusted with final care. In accordance with his wishes, there will be no service and his ashes will be scattered in Manasota Memorial Garden. There will be a celebration of life held in New York at a later date.

Any donations may be made in his name to the American Kidney Foundation, or Tidewell Hospice.