Raymond D. West, 86 years, born and raised in Fort Madison, Iowa "crossed-over" at 4:15 am April 3, 2013 at the Great River Hospice House, West Burlington, Iowa. He was born December 17, 1926 at Fort Madison, Iowa, a son of Forrest and Ida (Markle) West. On May 15, 1945, he married June Lee Strah at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. She preceded him in death December 26, 2007.

Raymond was a graduate of the Fort Madison High School Class of 1944, after which he joined the United States "Regular Army". He was a proud veteran of 22 years, during which he served in the Korean Conflicts from 1950 - 1952 and 1964 - 1966. He worked 23 years for the Department of Defense, with NATO in Europe, until retiring back to the states. Ray and June resided in Monmouth, Illinois where they lived out their final days. He was of the Methodist faith. He enjoyed wine tasting, dancing with his wife June, playing bridge and traveling in Europe. Ray was well loved by his family, friends and neighbors, to which one called him "Ray of Sunshine".

He is survived by his son, Alan (wife Amy) West, of Lake Ozark, Missouri; one daughter, Christine (husband Robert) Candrella, of Lakeridge, Virginia; two brothers, Robert West, of Laramie, Wyoming and Quentin West, of Boulder, Colorado; nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, devoted wife June and two brothers, Ernest and Walter.

Family will greet friends from 10:00 to 11:00 am Tuesday April 9, 2013 at the Barr Memorial Chapel, Fort Madison. Funeral services will be held 11:00 am Tuesday at the Barr Memorial Chapel, Fort Madison following the visitation. Pastor Brenda Goodall will officiate. Burial will be at the Oakland Cemetery, Fort Madison, Iowa. A memorial has been established for the Great River Hospice House, contributions may be made at the Barr Memorial Chapel, Fort Madison.