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Gary West
Obituary
Gary West
1946 – 2024
Peacefully at McCormick Home on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, Robert Gary West of London died at age 78.
He shall be profoundly missed by Shirley, his wife, soulmate, and best friend of 55 years.
He will be remembered by his sister Susan Carrol and her husband Brant, their three children David, Rick, and Jennifer, along with their six grandchildren. Gary was predeceased by his parents Iva and Bob West of Brantford.
Shirley’s cousins Mary Carrigan, David Copeland, Patricia, and her husband Alex Pow have been very supportive to Shirley during Gary’s many challenges while living with Alzheimer’s and since his death.
A graduate of the Richard Ivey School of Business (HBA ’68), a Chartered Professional Accountant and a Fellow of the Institute of Canadian Bankers, Gary worked for Royal Bank over many years holding senior leadership positions at national, district and local business levels in Toronto, Halifax, and Montreal. A brief departure mid-career included time with Export Development Canada in Ottawa and Toronto and Banque National de Paris (Canada) in Toronto.
Gary’s caring nature and his desire to “give back” led to early retirement and a move from Toronto to London in late 2001. He channeled his energy and leadership skills towards several volunteer activities in London, including many years as President of his Condominium. Gary gave tirelessly of his time in various roles to Western University, the Richard Ivey School of Business, St. Joseph’s Health Care, and organizations such as the VON and the United Way.
An enthusiastic leader and mentor, Gary always thrived in complex fast-moving environments. The Western Alumni Association recognized him as the 2016 recipient of the Dr. Ivan Smith Award, the highest recognition for meritorious alumni contributions to the University and Society in general. In 2018 Gary was awarded an Ivey Distinguished Service Award in honour of his substantial and sustained contributions of time and talent in support of Ivey alumni initiatives and traditions such as the Ivey Pledge Ceremony.
At St. Joseph Health Care London, Gary was a member of the SJHC Board and the SJHC Foundation Board as well as several committees. He was a Second Vice-President of the Lawson Health Research Institute (Lawson) Board of Directors and the Lawson’s Finance, Audit & Investment Committee.
Gary’s career took him to three provinces where, in each location, Shirley and Gary embraced the unique beauty, opportunities and experiences. They both enjoyed a variety of sports and the arts while remaining lifelong learners and making many new friends. When living at home with Shirley was no longer possible due to the impact of dementia and his care needs, Gary moved to London’s McCormick Home. He was well regarded and cared for by the staff there. His many caregivers on the Willow Ridge Unit noted his kindness to everyone including other residents. Gary was always thankful for their assistance, and they described him as “a real gentleman”.
A Celebration of Gary’s Life will be held at a later date.
If desired, memorial contributions to the Alzheimer Society Southwest Partners, 435 Windermere Road, London, ON N5X 2T1 or to McCormick Home, 2022 Kains Road, London, ON N6K 0A8 would be appreciated.
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2024
Death notice for the town of: London, Province: Ontario
death notice Gary West 2024
obituaries notice Gary West 2024
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Gary West 2024 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
