Kent Albert West's Obituary
DECATUR- Kent Albert West, 73, of Decatur, Illinois, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2025, after a courageous five-year battle with cancer.
Born on February 12, 1951, Kent entered the world as one of the famed "Decatur Triplets," alongside his identical brothers, Kevin and Kim. A pride of the community, the triplets’ milestones were highlighted by the local paper over the years.
Kent graduated from MacArthur High School in 1969 and went on to earn a degree in Business Management from Bradley University. After many years working in Chicago, he returned to Decatur in 1997 where he and his father co-owned Tryco International, a distributor for industrial recycling shredders.
Kent married the love of his life, Lea Hier, on September 19, 1987, in Chicago. Together, they shared a life filled with love, laughter, music, and family. He was a devoted father to Alexandra and Rachel and a proud grandfather to Eliot, Owen, Isla, and Desmond.
One of Kent’s passion projects (of which there were many) was his beloved 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air convertible, a car he and his brothers purchased for $150 of lawn-mowing wages when they were 16. In 2016, after a year of meticulous restoration, Kent surprised Lea by unveiling the fully restored car, dazzling in its turquoise-and-ivory paint. It was a gift of love and nostalgia, capturing Kent’s adventurous spirit and creativity.
Kent enjoyed many hobbies, including sailing on Lake Decatur, rollerblading on the Fairview Park bike path, and working diligently in his garden. He was deeply rooted in his community with his involvement in CONO, neighborhood associations, and National Night Out. Kent was also passionately involved in his church, Central Christian, serving as a deacon, elder, and trustee over the years, never missing an opportunity to uplift others. In retirement, Kent and Lea were fortunate to enjoy international adventures to Greece, Portugal, and France.
Kent is survived by his wife of 37 years, Lea West; daughters Alexandra (Ben) Haefele and Rachel (Andy) Seidel; four grandchildren Eliot, Owen, Isla, and Desmond; siblings Kevin, Kim, Robert (Cathy), Julia Stephens (Brad); and beloved dog, Walter. He was preceded in death by his mother, Evelyn; father, Robert; sister Ann; and many dear family members.
Visitation will take place from 4 to 6 on Friday, January 10, 2025, at Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home. Kent’s Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 10 am, at Central Christian Church, followed by a private burial. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Central Christian Church or Central Christian Church Music Program.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Vonderlieth, the University of Chicago oncology team, and the many friends and caregivers who supported Kent throughout his illness.
Kent Albert West will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother whose love of family, adventurous spirit, and kindness left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. He will be deeply missed but cherished always.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family in care of Graceland Fairlawn Funeral Homes www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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