SONNY WEST, FUHS 1950

December 07, 2012  

Here is an email message from Dave Williams, class of ’51:

Hi Connie,. We have lost another alum. Sonny West has passed on, as recently reported in the OC Register. His first name was Odis, and he graduated in '50. He was married to another alum, Bette Cooksey, from the class of '47.

 

West, Odis "SONNY", 83, passed away Sunday, December 2, 2012 at home following a courageous battle with leukemia. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Bette (Cooksey) West; his son, Jeff West; his daughter, Diane Boothe; grandchildren, Michelle Caspary, Dan Caspary, Melisa Caspary and Scott Caspary; four great-grandchildren; his brother, John (Betty) West; nieces, nephews and many close friends.

Born in Doniphan, Missouri, the son of Lionel and Ruth (Kelley) West, he moved to La Habra in 1944 where he attended Washington School, Fullerton High School and Mt. San Antonio Community College.

In 1950, he joined the U.S. Army and served as a fireman in Tokyo, Japan. After returning on New Year's Day 1953, he worked with his father-in-law, C.W. Cooksey, at the Modern Barber Shop in La Habra.

In 1958, "Sonny" joined the La Habra Fire Department, and had a rewarding career retiring as fire captain in 1985. He took pride in serving the City of La Habra, and following his retirement continued to give back to the community.

An avid golfer, "Sonny" was instrumental in organizing golf events and tournaments. He was an active member of the VFW, the American Legion, and the La Habra Elks Lodge.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at the chapel followed by interment at Memory Gardens Memorial Park in Brea on December 7th at 10:00 a.m. Viewing is available at 9:00 a.m.



Published in Orange County Register from December 5 to December 6, 2012

Print | View Guest Book  (available until 12/6/2013)