James "Mike" West

Husband, Father, Veteran and Long Time State Farm Agent

James Waterbury West of Alpharetta, GA died on November 15, 2015. He was born January 12, 1926 in Newark, NJ and was nicknamed and known throughout his life as Mike.

Mike graduated from East Orange High School in 1944 and immediately enlisted in the army with many of his high school friends. He proudly served in the 9th Armored Infantry in Europe during World War II. He was wounded twice in combat receiving a Purple Heart and was awarded a Bronze Star for Valor for his actions during the Battle of the Bulge. He was honorably discharged in June of 1946 and attended Upsala College, graduating in 1951. Mike helped lead the baseball pitching staff and was scouted by several professional teams. After graduation Mike became Playground Director for the city of East Orange where so many of the kids whose lives he touched stayed in touch throughout his lifetime. In 1956 he embarked on a career as an agent with State Farm Insurance and was recognized as a perennial all-star and leader throughout a 38 year career.

He lived many years in Livingston, NJ and was active as a coach for the Livingston Little League, Boy Scout Troop 12, and was a Free Mason in Livingston Lodge #11

Mike married Judith Kathleen in 1984 and resided in Madison & Beach Haven, NJ. They retired to Fort Myers, Florida enjoying golf and well deserved time off. He spent much of his time providing patient counseling at Lee Memorial Hospital.

Mike enjoyed time with his grandchildren swimming, Florida excursions, and taking them on golf cart rides. An avid golfer Mike shot his first Hole- in- One just in time for his 70th birthday. He and Judy traveled extensively together & with friends. In 2004 he moved to Alpharetta, Georgia and became an active member in Northminster Presbyterian Church. An avid bridge player he attained Life Master status. Mike spent much of his retirement years attending lecture series on the World Wars, 20th Century history, and Bible Study. He will be remembered as a kind, loving, and genuine man, husband, father, and grandfather.

He was preceded in death by his parents Allen and Ella West, his brother Allen, sister Betty, son Brian, and grandson Ryan West

Mike is survived by his wife Judith, children Christine West (Christian), Scott West (Anna), Gregory Hall, (Christine) Kimberley Pizzuto, (Mark) daughter in law Patti West, and grandchildren Jenna, Alexandria, Haley, Mallory, Jacqualyne, Alexandra, and Caitlyn, sister Anne and brother Philip.

Visiting will be on Tuesday December 1st from 5 to 7 at Roswell Funeral Home, 950 Mansell Rd., Roswell, GA. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the memorial service to celebrate his life which will be held at 2PM on December 2 at Northminster Presbyterian Church, 2400 Old Alabama Road, Roswell, GA. He will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations may be made to the Salvation Army or the charity of your choice.