Robert Francis West, Sr.

Robert Francis “Bob” West, Sr. of Young Harris, Georgia, passed away on February 20, 2019. He was born in Bethesda, Maryland, on November 1, 1935, to William and Louise West, who preceded him in death. The family lived in Washington, D.C. and later moved to Hillcrest Heights, Maryland. He graduated from Eastern High School in Washington, D.C. and served in the Air National Guard before becoming a firefighter for the District of Columbia fire department, achieving the rank of sergeant. After retiring in 1971 due to health reasons, he was a lifelong member of the Retired Firefighter’s Association of Washington, D.C. Bob and wife Barbara moved their family to Marco Island, Florida in 1973. He joined the Marco Island Volunteer Fire Department and began working for the Marriott Marco Beach Resort where he spent nearly 25 years assisting guests from all over the world as a bellman. He was a huge supporter of his children as they engaged in church, school, sports, music, and their careers. His grandchildren also brought him great joy. He enjoyed bowling, boating, watching sports, traveling and RVing. Bob never met a stranger and could put people instantly at ease with his easy smile and quick wit.
Robert is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara Miraglia West, children Robert F. West, Jr. (Cindy) of Jasper, AL, Karen West of Young Harris, GA, Donald West (Mia) of Lakeland, FL, and Michael West of Lakeland, FL, six grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, brother-in-law Edward Miraglia (Candy) and sister-in-law Joanne Snow, and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his brother, William West, brother in-law, Harold “Benny” Self, Jr., and a grandchild, Ethan Robert West.
The family will hold a private service in Lakeland, Florida.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to The Retired Firefighters Association of Washington, D.C. (IAFF Local 36) 2120 Bladensburg Rd. NE, Suite 210 Washington, D.C. 20018 or the Towns County Fire Corps, PO Box 118 Hiawassee, GA 30546.