Albert Benjamin West, a longtime resident of Barrington RI and Westport MA passed away on December 17. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Irene (Reese) West. Albert was a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, esteemed lawyer, and a great friend to many. Born on July 26, 1933, in Providence RI, Albert's life was a testament to faith, family, and service.
Albert began his life's journey in Providence as the son of George J West and Julia Hetherman West. He attended LaSalle High School and later became a distinguished alumnus of Providence College, where he not only studied but also shared his expertise by teaching law as an adjunct professor for many years. He received his law degree from Georgetown University in Washington DC. He found lifelong companionship in Irene, whom he married on December 26, 1960. They settled in Barrington RI where they raised four children.
With a career spanning over 50 years, Albert's dedication to law was exemplary. He predominantly served as a member of the Manning, West, Santaniello, and Pari law firm in Providence where he was a founding partner. His commitment to the law was further reflected during his tenure as the Director of the Department of Business Regulations for the State of Rhode Island. Albert's service extended to the US Army, where he served honorably in Germany, embodying his devotion to his country.
Albert spent most of his later years living with Irene in Westport MA. They had previously spent summers there but they wanted to spend their golden years enjoying the view and spectacular sunsets year-round. It was also where Albert could spend more time playing his favorite sports of tennis and golf at the Acoaxet Club. In addition to being a long-time member, he also served as club president. While he enjoyed the tennis, golf and other activities at the Acoaxet club, it was mostly about the great friendships he developed over the years.
Albert was very devoted to his faith. He was a long-time member of St. Luke's Church in Barrington, RI, as well as St. John's Church in Westport MA and St. Catherine Church in Little Compton RI. He attended mass regularly for his entire life and his faith guided how he lived and treated other people.
In a particularly unfortunate twist of timing, Albert died just before his favorite holiday of Christmas. He cherished spending the holiday with his ever-growing family as they enjoyed precious time spent with him. His Christmas spirit was not limited to his family. For many years he loved to don his Santa Claus outfit and distribute gifts to neighborhood children. That spirit of kindness has passed on to his grandson Ben who continues to keep the tradition alive.
Besides his wife Irene, he is survived by his children Albert (Bert) West of Eden Prairie MN, Mary West of Randolph MA, Tricia Fraser of Franklin MA, and David West of North Andover MA, four beloved grandchildren Ben Fraser, Peter West, Julia DeMarco, Kaitlyn Favreau and three great grandchildren, Gabriella DeMarco, Benjamin Fraser and Bryan Fraser. He was also the brother of George West III and Margaret (West) Donovan, both deceased.
The funeral will be held Wednesday, December 27, 2023 at 10 AM at St. Bernadette Church, 1031 North Main Street, Randolph MA. It will be followed by lunch at a location near the church. Since Albert generously donated his body for scientific research there will be no wake or burial. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Providence College Annual Fund using this link: https://donate.givetopc.org/.
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