Ronald G. West's Obituary
Ronald G. West, 91, of Delran, NJ, passed away peacefully on April 29, 2026, surrounded by his family. Born on February 22, 1935, in Philadelphia, PA, he was the son of the late Edward and Frieda West (née Dawidowicz).
Ronald was the devoted husband of the late Jo-Anne West (née McGann). He was a loving father to John West (Kathryn), Heather Thiel (Steven), and Karin Mormando (Michael). He was a proud “Pop-Pop” to Owen, Leo, Colin, Molly, Harrison, and Avery. He was predeceased by his siblings Valerie, Bill, Doris, and Barbara. He will also be deeply missed by his beloved cat, Cleo—he often joked it was just him and Cleo against the world.
Ron proudly served his country in the United States Army as an E4 Specialist. During his time stationed in Germany, he had the opportunity to travel throughout Europe, forming lasting friendships and memories that he cherished and often shared with family and friends throughout his life.
From a young age, Ron developed a love for woodworking while spending time in his father’s workshop. He carried those skills with him throughout his life, creating custom pieces for loved ones, including basement bars (several!), furniture, molding, and even tiny houses displayed at his children’s weddings. He was also a proud tool and die worker in Philadelphia for over 20 years.
After nearly 50 years of marriage, Ron and Jo-Anne built a deeply meaningful life together centered around their children and home—writing letters during his military service, raising their family together, and spending time antiquing. After her passing in 2012, he continued his passion for collecting, frequenting yard sales where he was known for never accepting the listed price without a little negotiation. He would bring his finds home and build custom shelving to display them, curating a “museum” on Patricia Avenue.
An avid reader, Ron especially enjoyed military books (particularly with a focus on World War II), thrillers, and historical fiction. He also loved gardening, watching movies, and reading The Philadelphia Inquirer each day (saving articles that his children might want to read later!).
A gathering of family and friends will be held on Friday, May 8th from 9:00 to 10:30 AM at Givnish of Cinnaminson, 1200 Route 130 North, Cinnaminson, NJ. A Life Celebration service will begin at 10:30 AM and will be livestreamed (https://www.viewlogies.net/givnish/9MYPzw8VQ?pin=499003)
In honor of Ron’s love for cats—especially Cleo—memorial donations may be made in his name to the ASPCA at www.aspca.org.
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