Obituary of Dennis West

Dennis Henry West was born July 3,1950 in New Tazewell, Tennessee the son of the late Sherman M. West and Helen (Meyers) West. Denny was a 1968 graduate of Monroe High School and attended MCCC and the University of Toledo. Denny married his high school sweetheart, Sharon Maddox on August 23, 1969. He was a Michigan licensed builder who custom designed and built homes throughout Monroe County. Denny was known throughout the community, as a man of integrity, with a great faith in God. The love for his Lord was evidenced by his walk and commitment to serving others; in hopes that many would come to know Christ as Lord and Savior. Over the years Denny has served in several areas of ministry within the church: discipleship elder, deacon, Sunday school director and teacher, music ministry member and church treasurer. He has also been instrumental in establishing new church works within the Southeastern Southern Baptist Association in Monroe County. He has played an active leadership role at Amazing Grace Baptist Church. Denny was an avid gardener, loved woodworking and wood-burning projects. He also enjoyed playing his guitar with his family. His family includes his soul mate: Sharon of Ida, mother: Helen of Monroe, daughters: Shelly (Scott) Zimmerman of Monroe and Stacey West of Ida; four grandchildren: Samantha, Missy, and Jacob Zimmerman and Nathan West; brother: Sherman (Julie) West Jr. of Monroe; two sisters: Phyllis Case of Ida, and Jackie (Ron) Barnes of Willis; several nieces and nephews; and he was expecting his first great grandson: Darius. Denny West age 58 of Ida passed away at 2:50pm, Sunday May 10, 2009 at his home. In addition to his father his passing was preceded by a sister Christine West, nephews: Chuck Case and Johnathon Barnes, and his Boxer Butch. Friends may gather from 2:00-8:00pm, Tuesday, May 12, 2009 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. He will lie-in-state from 10:00am until a Celebration of His Life at 11:00am, Wednesday, May 13, 2009 at Monroe Missionary Baptist Church, 14260 South Dixie Highway the Rev. Harold Raymond officiating. Burial will follow at Rath Cemetery. Donations may be made to Mercy Memorial Hospice of Monroe. Online words of inspiration and comfort may be made at www.merklefuneralservice.com; Life Stories page. Denny leaves a legacy of love, wisdom, gentle spirit, strength and sense of humor that is treasured by his family and friends.