John "Jack" West

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of a truly special man—John West, 78, affectionately known as Jack. Jack was the devoted husband of 55 years to Sharon West, a proud dad to Natalie Heinbaugh and puppy-daughter Cocoa, loving father-in-law to Scot Heinbaugh, the best Pop to grandchildren Evan West and Emma Smith, and one of the kindest souls you could ever meet.

Jack will be remembered by his loving sister and brother-in-law Maureen and Mike McCarthy, his grandchildren’s father Wesley Smith, numerous brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews.

He built a life centered on love, connection, and being together. And that kind of love doesn’t go away, it stays with you. He was gentle by nature, sweet, patient, and strong. Even in the hardest moments, he didn’t complain. More than anything, he loved his family. He was a proud Vietnam Veteran and he loved his country.

Jack began his career in the printing industry and started his own company, Wonder Wrench Repair. After retiring from that field, he worked an additional 20 years at Dairy Maid Dairy, in Frederick, Maryland.

After a courageous and hard-fought battle with esophageal cancer, he passed peacefully at home, surrounded by the love he spent his life giving. His strength through this illness was nothing short of remarkable, and it serves as a reminder of how devastating this disease can be. In his honor, we hope to bring awareness to esophageal cancer and the impact it has on individuals and families.

In his final days, his love and smile never wavered.

He leaves behind a family who adored him, a home filled with memories, and a love that will never fade. He was, and always will be, deeply loved.

A celebration of his life will be announced at a later date.