Dennis Lyle West, age 70, of Ravenna, passed away peacefully with loved ones by his side on February 8, 2023 at Good Samaritan Society – St. John’s in Kearney after a long battle with COPD.
Dennis was born to Harry and Bertha [Retke] West on June 28, 1952 in Alliance, NE. He attended school in Alliance and enlisted in the U.S. Army at age 17. He was a veteran of the Vietnam Era and served honorably from February 1970 to December 1972, receiving several service medals. He was an engineer for 26 years with Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad until retirement in October 2000. Dennis then made his home in Ravenna, Nebraska.
Dennis was known for his great sense of humor, storytelling, generosity, empathy, and thoughtfulness. He deeply enjoyed life through outdoor activities, gardening, trading on the stock market, and spending time with loved ones. In the last few years he enjoyed watching the birds and squirrels on his porch that he watered and fed daily. Dennis will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and animals.
Dennis is survived by his five children, Priscilla Angela Sandoz [Brandon] Bailey of Scottsbluff, NE; Jessica Andrea [Jason] Schmick of Burnsville, MN; Shawn Levi Alexander [Tara] West of Gering, NE; Mari Mariah O’Neill [David] McDaniels of Deltona, FL; Shay Ann [Kenneth] Olea of Omaha, NE; and significant other Connie McKeon of Ravenna, NE. He is also survived by siblings Carol [Bernard] Gasseling of Lincoln, NE; Gary [Barb] West of Hastings, MN; Ray West of Grand Island, NE; Ron West of Alliance, NE, as well as 10 grandchildren, 1 great-granddaughter expected in February, nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and infant brothers, Leroy and Billy.
A celebration of his life and graveside service, including full military honors, will be held on Friday, April 14, 2023 at 1:00 PM at the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery, 2610 County Road 57, Alliance, NE.
Reception dinner will immediately follow with the location announced after the service.
Condolences may be shared online at www.rasmussenfh.com. Rasmussen Brothers Mortuary in Ravenna are in charge of arrangements.