Richard B. West

His family and friends were able to spend precious time with him until his passing.

Rick was born on January 20, 1947 to Byard T. and Kathleen (Stack) West in Philadelphia, PA. He graduated from Roman Catholic High School in 1964. Following high school, he was employed by Carson Helicopters for approximately 20 years. From there he went to Our Lady of the Assumption (OLA) starting as their office manager. Music came naturally to Rick and he became the choir director and lead organist for OLA. Rick would not call it work, his music and the many choirs he led were his passion. He also enjoyed decorating OLA for all major holidays and events. He was dedicated and committed to OLA for 42 years until his retirement earlier this year.

In 1971, he met his life-long companion Frank Civillico, who passed away in 2014. Rick is also survived by his loving family, including his brother Mark West (Ruth) and his sisters Margaret Kiefski (Ed) and Janet Sherman (Ron, deceased) and his nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews. He was also blessed to have many special friendships, including his dear friends Jim, Tony and Khan.

Rick’s family is sincerely grateful for the many years of support and friendship shown by the OLA family who graciously embraced him throughout his tenure at OLA, in particular these last several months.

Rick was the host to many gatherings and dinner parties for family and friends. These events, no matter the occasion, joyfully included everyone surrounding the piano or organ listening to Rick play for them. Eventually his guests would break into song laughing and singing until the evening ended. Those times together will be forever etched in our memories and will be missed by all!

Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, November 22nd at 12:00 noon Our Lady of the Assumption (OLA) Parish located at 35 Old Eagle School Road, Strafford, PA 19087. Visitation will be from 9:00 am – 11:30 in Sacred Heart Chapel of OLA Church.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to OLA Outreach. Donations can be mailed to OLA Outreach, 35 Old Eagle School Road, Strafford, PA 19087.