Maxine West

Maxine Alberta West lived a long and beautiful life. It had to be long, because Maxine had so many things to contribute to the world. Her love of her children and of her friends made her a wonderful person to know, and her commitment to the well-being of others made her a persistent and dedicated care-giver.

Maxine's life story began in Otsego, Michigan in 1916, where Clarence and Lena (Beck) Tompkins had begun their family. It was on March 16 of that year that they welcomed a beautiful baby girl, Maxine, into the family. She was the second of their three daughters. Raised in the Petoskey area, Maxine and her sisters could be quite a handful. Maxine attended Girls Training School in Adrian, Michigan, and was class salutatorian, graduating in 1934.

Not only was Maxine accomplishing great things educationally, but she also had a flourishing love life. She soon met and married Leon West, and although the marriage did not last, out of their union came four important things in Maxine's life - her children. Sharon, Kenneth, Paul, and Bob were a blessing to Maxine, and she was an amazing mother to them. Always looking out for their best interest, she was a stern disciplinarian, keeping one step ahead of the kids and their sneaky ideas. She was always supportive of the kids' activities, whether it be attending sporting events, acting as Cub Scout Den Mother, being in the Boy Scout's Mother's Club, or participating in PTA as a chairperson. She moved the family to Ravenna, Ohio, and began working when her youngest began attending school.

Maxine held several different jobs throughout her life, but a common thread throughout all of them was that they involved the care of other people. Most often she was working for the greater good of the poor and the elderly, always willing to stand up for people who were not always able to defend themselves. Maxine also worked as a nutritionist, going to people's homes in order to show them better ways of eating healthy and buying wisely. Often her work involved organizing, scheduling, clerical work, and record keeping.

Although Maxine was known as a great cook, some would say that her meals were a little better before she became a nutritionist. Maxine knew, however, that the most important component of health was to eat right and to not always be indulgent. She was also able to live frugally, never wasting money on unimportant items or goods.

In order to be closer to her mother and sister, Maxine moved back to Michigan in the 1970s, this time to Grand Rapids. She most currently worked at an area agency on aging, and was passionate about her work. No matter what job Maxine was doing, she was constantly working toward an ideal society where each person had the rights they deserved and were entitled to. Her lack of patience worked in her favor as it made her persistent and persuasive. This helped her intercede for others and get them help. She did not easily give up on anything.

Faith had always been important to Maxine, and when she moved, she became involved in North Park Baptist Church. This became an important part of her life – not only faith, but the people she met at church. She was very active in sending cards to members of the church for illnesses, birthdays, and any important life event. In return, they cared for her and were good to her in watching over her and supporting her.

Maxine walked with pain in her ankle after an accident in 1969. Although there was pain, she never complained and was able to walk and be independent until she was 91 years old. She was usually too busy taking care of others to express her own pain and discomforts, and preferred to simply be there for others. She loved to read the Bible and mystery novels, was a hard worker and a go-getter, often allowing her stubborn side to work to her advantage. She had a lot of friends and could strike up a conversation with just about anybody, charming everyone around her with her sense of humor.

Maxine was able to live on her own for many years longer than most people, but she moved to Kent Community for additional care in 2007. After a long and amazing life, Maxine went to be with her Lord on July 17, 2009. She lived for 93 years, establishing a legacy of dedication and hard work. She will be remembered for her love of others and for her love of her family. She will be so deeply missed.

Maxine was preceded in death by her daughter, Sharon, and is survived by her sons Kenneth (Pam) West of Ravenna OH, Paul (Tammy) West of Wyoming MI and Bob and Melba West of Grand Rapids; several grandchildren and great grandchildren; her sister, Marge Paige and nieces and nephews. Friends may visit with her family on Monday, July 20 from 6-8 PM at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home – Van Strien Creston Chapel, 1833 Plainfield NE, where the service will be held on Tuesday at 11 AM. For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made to North Park Baptist Church. To read more about her life, to share a memory or to sign the online register, please visit www.lifestorynet.com.