James R. West

It is with heavy heart and great sadness to announce the untimely passing of James (Jim) Rutan West (67).

Born in Bordentown NJ on May 29,1957 to Joan Nicholson and Donald West. Survived by his son Brandon Underhill West, his mother Joan Peiffer-Stanley (NJ), his brother David West (California), and sisters Donna Peiffer - Both (PA) and Cindy West-Schaefer (NJ), and close family loved ones, his ex-spouse Gail Underhill and partner Margaret Clark (Meg) and many nieces, nephews. He was the epitome of a Great Uncle. Jim was a resident of Westfield, NJ for 40 years. He passed away too suddenly, battling liver cancer for over a year, we all thought he was going to pull through, God had another plan, and didn’t want him to suffer as much as he already had and left us on the evening of July 26, 2024.

Jim was a breath of fresh air that entered any room, no matter where Jim was, he brought a ray of sunshine. When he entered a room, you noticed. Poised, dignified, Jim could carry on any conversation on any topic. His smile lit up the room and you would feel a calming sense and uplifting energy when he spoke. He listened to what you had to say with his whole being. He was all heart. Not to mention, if there was a family pet, they immediately became the best of friends. Often referred to as the dog whisperer. He was more than just a caring son, he devoted most of his adult life to being front and center in assisting his mother, while trying to build multiple businesses. He was a devoted father and loved family life with all his soul. Showing up for all family functions, he always gave acolytes mixed with a little humor, especially if potatoes were being served, noting “these are just as good as the diner.” It became a family tradition for Jim to remind us.

Born a natural athlete, Jim was nationally ranked #29 tennis player in 1985, he received awards and titles playing Tennis and Surfing. Those who were taught tennis by Jim, were given a gift, because he poured his heart and soul into each swing. Besides tennis, Jim was an avid golf player. He absolutely could talk for hours about the game. Younger Jim could often be found on his surfboard during sunrise and sunset while he patiently waited, looking to catch the great next wave. Growing up in the summers at Ocean City, he often participated in surfing contests at the 7th street beach.

There was a great depth to Jim, not only did he excel in tennis, golf and surfing, but he also loved music. He could play the piano and trumpet and could often find him writing.

Anything Jim did, he did well, there was no mediocrity. While he excelled in all these sports and music, his biggest love was family. He was the soul and the heartbeat, the one everyone looked to for answers, wisdom and humor. No conversation was ever cut off, he could listen for hours and talk for hours and when in doubt there was always, always time for sushi.

Jim has created a legacy to be carried on for everyone, he cared, he listened, he brought his whole heart and soul into everything he did and said, mixed with a bit of Irish laughter. He showed us what humanity should be. We all learned from Jim, and we can’t thank him enough for all that he has done for this family and his friends. Our love for Jim will always continue in the memories we keep of him and the stories we will share of him, as he filled our souls with so much love, laughter and peace of mind. Until we meet again … God speed Jim, we love you. 

Celebration of life services will be held for Jim West on August 16, 2024 at 5:30 pm at Christ Riverton Episcopal Church, Riverton, NJ 500 4th Street, Riverton NJ 08077. (856-829-1634) And, a paddle out on 4th street beach in Ocean City, NJ on August 17, 2024 at 5:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers the family asks to make a donation to Christ Church Riverton Road, NJ 08077, and /or St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 414 E Broad Street, NJ 07090, or to plant a tree foundation.