Marvin D. West

On Monday, January 19, 1942 Marvin D. West was born (along with his twin brother) at the family home in Chetopa, KS. His childhood was spent bouncing around Southeast KS and Joplin, MO., as his father was an auctioneer and salesman.

Marvin met and married the love of his life, Glenna Marie Perry, then became the first of his family to graduate college. He earned his Bachelors in Education from Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg, KS. – working his way through school by playing in a band, Connie and the Bellhops – which later earned him induction into the Kansas Music Hall of Fame for their contributions to early rock/rockabilly. The young father then completed his Masters Degree in Education with a minor in geography from the University of KS, Lawrence.

A dedicated teacher, most of his 39 year career was spent at Hillcrest Jr. High/Westridge Middle school, a steadfast favorite among students and staff. From stock car racing, motorcycle riding and even skydiving, Marvin embraced life with good humor and a tender heart, and was especially happy when fishing – whether on the strip pits of Kansas or the lakes of Canada.

He leaves behind his wife Glenna, children Donna and Brian, and grandchildren Donovan, Estelle, Evan and Geneva – countless friends and extended family, who already miss him dearly. A lifelong musician, rather than leading a stereotypical party lifestyle, he was often heard saying, "I'm high on life." And he was. And he took all he knew with him, enjoying the simple things; the most meaningful things life had to offer.

Marvin was taken from us on July 3, 2018 after battling a rare and incurable liver disease. "Marvin's Going Away Gathering" is being held on Friday, July 13th at the Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty St. Overland Park, KS. 66204 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks attendee's bring a side dish or favorite snack, only if able, to contribute to an old fashioned Mulberry style potluck. Tissues provided.