Richard West

Waterford — Richard H. West, 86, of Waterford passed away Feb. 16, 2021, at Beechwood Rehab in New London. He was born March 31, 1924, in Roanoke Rapids, N.C., the son of the late Henry and Fanny (Reaves) West, the youngest of nine children. He was predeceased by his first wife, Gloria (Pennella) West, who passed away in 1980, with whom he had four children. He was also predeceased by his second wife, Patticia (Whitty) West, who passed away in 2019.

Richard spent 20 years in the National Guard and nine years in the U.S. Coast Guard, which he was very proud of. He received numerous awards and accolades during his service. He graduated from the University of New Haven with a master’s degree in criminal justice, while working as a police officer with the City of New London Police Department and going to school. He worked his way up to the rank of captain, retiring in 1991.

He enjoyed traveling, camping, American history, photography, researching his family heritage and loved looking at maps. Spending time with his family was most important. He adored his grandchildren and never missed an opportunity to spend time with them. Richard was an avid fan of the Boston Red Sox, John Wayne and western movies. Richard was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

He is survived by his five children: David West (fiancée Patty Long), Brian West and wife Maria, Stephen West and wife Nancy, Diane West and Michael Whitty and wife Debra. He had 13 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

His family would like to thank the staff at Beechwood Rehab for their efforts during the COVID pandemic by keeping him connected with weekly video calls with his family. All funeral services will be private, and interment, with military honors are private. Donations in his memory may be made to the New London Police Department, 5 Governor Winthrop Blvd., New London, CT 05320. The Impellitteri-Malia Funeral Home, 84 Montauk Ave., New London, has been entrusted with his care.