Frank M. West obituary

Frank M. West Obituary

stamford, Florida, United States

May 29, 1917 - January 03, 2017

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Frank M. West obituary

Frank M. West Obituary

May 29, 1917 - Jan 03, 2017

This obituary is administered by:
Frank M. WestStuart, FLFrank M. West, the 'Leader of the Band', had his body call it quits on November 3, 2017 after 100 incredible years. Frank was born on May 28, 1917 in New York City. He grew up in Stamford, CT and graduated from Stamford High School. From there, he followed his passion, playing trumpet and was one of the most sought after trumpet players in New York. He married Lucille Leonard in 1939 and they produced three Angels (maybe a slight exaggeration) Paul, Chris and Donna. His professional music career was interrupted in 1941 by the Armed Services in WWII. Amazingly, Generals in all the various branches fought over him to play in their band. The Navy won the prize.After discharge, he played with several Big Bands but settled with a Latin Dance Band directed by Miguelito Valdes. His professional musician days were brought to an end in 1951 to bring a stable and loving life to his children. In 1978, he moved to Stuart, Florida. He was a caregiver to his wife for several years until her passing in 1992. But life paid him back.He met Margaret Cameron who had lost her husband. Despite her speaking a foreign language (Scottish), they married in Scotland (he in full kilt) when he was 90. Margaret rescued a lost soul and together they enjoyed a fabulous life as they took cruises as often as they could. (Oh, BTW, Margaret had two Angels, also: David and Ross).Frank had no siblings. He hopefully left his musical talents to one or more of his extended family: grandkids (Kerrigan, David, Cathi, Alex, Chris and James); great grandkids (Isabella and Logan). If you are still reading this you know he lit up the life of so many people (even Bob Gruschin) over so many years. His smile and positive attitude always won people over. He will truly be missed.He can be remembered on Friday, November 10, between 9-10:30 am (service starts 9:30 am) at Peace Presbyterian Church, 4881 SE Cove Road, Stuart FL.As Frank was a loyal member of Musicians Union Local 802, the family is requesting donations in lieu of flowers. They can made directly to: Musicians Foundation, 875 Sixth Avenue, Suite 2303, New York, NY 10001 or via their website: musiciansfoundation.org.
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