Kerry West

Kerry (Butch) Duane West, 72, of Staples peacefully left his joys and cares of earth for eternal rest and life on September 11, 2022, at home with his beloveds and compassionate care from Knute Nelson. He bravely took on the battle with throat cancer that was fast and relentless for six months.

A celebration of life will be held October 1 at 11:00 a.m. at the Staples Assembly of God Church. Visitation is one hour prior to services. Lunch and fellowship following the service.

Inurnment will be held at a later date. 

Kerry was born July 17, 1950 to Tracy and Betty (Hutchinson) West. He grew up in Illinois and in 1968 he moved to Staples where he attended school and met his sweetheart in life, Margaret Mertens. They were married on August 29, 1970. Kerry had a very diverse nature with many gifts and adventures. Often told he should write a book about his life, he’d reply, “nobody would believe it.” If a question was raised about anything a common reply would be “ask Butch.” Over the years he learned Greek, some Chinese and Spanish, was a diesel tractor driver/trainer, industrial battery repair, a bondsman, property manager, computer sales/maintenance, expediter for Honeywell and worked in the ministry...anything he set his mind to do or learn he did - there was never a dull moment and sometimes he was a force to be reckoned with if need be. He was a strong shoulder for his family and friends. Kerry made an impression and will be sorely missed.

Kerry is survived by his wife, Maggie; one daughter, Keryn (born in 1986); seven grandchildren, Wyatt, Jaden, Karly, Keyra, Calub, Tobias and Taytum who kept his life full and busy; many West, Self, Drone siblings, Wests: Gary, David (Kathy), Mark (Missie) and Georgia (Danny) Swisher; Selfs: Starr (Larry) Botzet and Ramona; Drones: Bruce, Norman (Shawna) and Jesse (KaAnn); many nieces, nephews and cousins and extended family. One cousin, Eddie (Rose) West was his “roomie” at Grandma West’s for several years. He is also survived by many friends dear to his heart including Wally Scifres whom God sent into his life from Kentucky to be his first “spiritual brother in Christ Jesus” a “light” of hope.

He is preceded in death by his parents; step-mother, Rita West; four brothers, Tracy “Joey” West, III, Bruce West, Dale (Rusty) Self and Almond Drone; one sister, Lois (Drone) Self and brother-in-law, Wilbur Self.

Cremation was provided by Taylor Funeral and Cremation Care of Staples. 

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