Albert West

Albert “Al” Melvin West, a soft-spoken, kind hearted, dedicated husband and Father, died at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham, WA on December 16, 2014. He was born April 17, 1922 in Bellingham, WA, to Inga and John West, immigrants from Norway. He was the youngest of his six siblings. Growing up, Albert’s family lived on Lake Whatcom and he attended the old Geneva Elementary School on Lakeway Drive, walking back and forth to school from what is now the Sudden Valley area. He also attended the Seventh Day Adventist Academy in Auburn, WA. He served his country in the Merchant Marines. At the age of 58, he retired after 38 years with the Bethlehem Steel Mill in Seattle, WA. Whenever Bethlehem would strike, he was the first to sign up as a longshoreman to provide for his family. He was a long-time resident of Burien, WA, until moving back to Bellingham with his wife Clara West in the 1990s. He was preceded in death by his wife Clara Louise West, adopted son, Carl Frank West, sisters Miriam (Albert) Stevens and Lucille West and his brothers, Oliver, Paul, Lawrence and Adolf. He is survived by his wife Metta, who he married in 2000; next of kin daughter Bonnie (Tony) West-Armstrong, grandson Troy (Christina) Patrick Childs and great-grandsons Jack and Ryan. He is also survived by his nieces Beverly Shelton of Edmonds, WA. and Janice Wheeler of St. Helena, CA, nephews Wally Stevens, Esq. of Truckee, CA, Dr. Wesley Stevens of Alturas, CA, and Bob Stevens of Hawaii. Al still has relatives in California, Oregon and Norway. Al’s absolute passion was gardening, camping and fishing. As his children grew up, his family spent most all summer weekends camping at Mt. Saint Helens, Westport, Ocean Shores or lakes in Eastern Washington. When people made what he considered questionable decisions, he simply said “It’s Dealer’s Choice” which let you know he did not necessarily agree so you’d better consider all consequences of your decision seriously. He is dearly missed by his family and now has final peace. Albert will be buried at Bayview Cemetery in a private family ceremony.

Albert West

April 17, 1922 - December 16, 2014