Jon Kenneth West passed away at his home April 30, 2017 at the age of 70. Jon and Donna live in Gainesville, Fl. He is survived by his wife, Donna, his mother, Elna West, his children and 15 grandchildren. Jon’s children include Jonathon and Andrea Deringer, Denise West, Daniel West, Peter and Karen West, Katie West, Matthew and Renee West and Sam and Holly Wynkoop. Jon was born in Evansville, Indiana on January 12, 1947 and grew up in Indianapolis, Indiana. He met Donna at their church as children and they were high school sweethearts. Jon has a B.S. in Physics from Ottawa University, a Masters in Nuclear Physics from Kansas State University and a PhD in Astrophysics from the University of Florida. He had a strong love for God that he was able to pass on to many people, including his family, through the years. His beautiful legacy will continue to spread that love to future generations. The funeral home is Forest Meadows Funeral Home and the service is being held at The Family Church on Friday, May 5, 2017. There will be a viewing from 1pm – 2pm and the service will begin at 2pm with a reception following the service at the church.
We are so sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with you all.
In His Name, John and Rita Potter
Grateful for the part Mr. West played in my life growing up and as a early adult. He had a part in leading my husband to the Lord.
My heart aches for all of you!!! It’s a comfort knowing he’s with the Lord already – but that doesn’t fill the earthly empty space he leaves!!! Sending prayers for all of you!!!!
I knew Jon only by reputation and the sweet memories of him that were shared by stories told by Tom Freeman and Donna. He has blessed your lives with his love, insights, and strength. Those blessings will be with you forever.
So sorry for your loss, many prayers for you all!
Grieving with you all concerning your loss and rejoicing with Jon who is, himself, rejoicing in the presence of our Lord. I love you all.
So sorry for your loss. My children spent many wonderful times in the West household while growing up. His children are the best legacy he left behind.
Jon was a father figure to my husband, Troy Thomas, as he grew up. Jon taught him the love for the Lord and for the outdoors. Troy speaks of him often in many scenarios. Troy and I were married in 1989 and of course Jon was Troys best man. He and Donna traveled all the way from Florida to North Carolina just to be a part of our day. Their love is endless and felt in all they do. I am so glad this isn’t a lasting goodbye, for we both know we will see Jon again in heaven. Until then, enjoy yourself Jon. We love you!! Troy and Jeannie Thomas
Such a beautiful Home Going service for Jon yesterday. Jon honored God in his life and will continue to honor Him in death. He was a remarkable man and his legacy will live on in his children and grandchildren. I am grateful for the encouragement he gave me as a single mom , the support he gave to my children and the gospel he shared with my son-in-law. May God cover Donna and each family member with comfort and peace now and in the days ahead.
Offering sincere condolences to the family and friends. No doubt this is a very difficult time, may you open your minds and hearts to receive the comfort and wonderful hope our Heavenly Father guarantees will soon come about. (Acts 24:15; Ps. 37:29)
To the West family, please accept this passage from a very old eulogy as something I think Jon would have liked to say to you.
“I’ve had a life’s journey so vivid with the images of you, a wonderful world so full of the seasons, the warm spring rains, the cold winter winds, and the adventures and contentments, good things and bad, that befalls all of us. How often you will have me near you when wood smoke drifts across the wind, or the first flowers of spring arrive, or the sky darkens in a summer storm….Think of me today, and in the days to come, as I am thinking of you this minute, not gone or alone or dead, but part of the earth beneath you, part of the air around you, and that part of your heart that must not be lonely.”
I am so pleased to have made Jon’s acquaintance, and to have had the opportunity to work with him.
My sincerest sympathy, Ernie Moyer
Jon led me to the Lord through a dark chapter in my life. He was so caring and loving that he set THE bar of compassion. We worked together for many years and he gave so much of himself in everything he did. He reminded me that our work efforts are as if we are working for God. I cherish the memories and hours of deep conversations.
I am sorry that I didn’t receive notice of his passing until today. I pray over the entire West family.
My deepest condolences,
Mark Kohler