ELMER F. WEST

Elmer F. West, age 88, of Kansas City, Mo, died June 29, 2007 at his residence. He formerly made his home in Southeast Kansas. He was born October 25, 1918 in Blue Mound, Kan. the son of Ernest Delbert West and Nola June (Baldwin) West. He married Nellie L. Wiggans on November 4, 1955. He served as a sergeant in the 601st Engineer Squadron of the Army Air Corps during WWII. Elmer was a Master Welder and was employed at Livers Bronze Company, Kansas City, Mo. for 41 years, where he developed techniques for working with metal alloys. Elmer and his wife were foster care providers for the Missouri Department of Social Services. The couple cared for 102 children over 21 years,

Survivors include his wife, Nellie of the home; five sons, James Delbert West, lola, Kan., Kenneth D. West, Dennis D. West, Douglas D. West and Scott D. West all of Kansas City, Mo; and four daughters, Bonnie J. Page, Blue Springs, Mo., Crystal J. West and Mary L. West; both of Kansas City, Mo, and Charlotte Baxter, Nevada, Mo. Also surviving is a sister, Inez Grogan, lola, Kan.; 26 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. His parents, daughters Carolyn Hudson and Mary Ellen Graves; and his brother, Delbert Eugene West preceded him in death. Graveside services will be held at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday in the U. S. National Cemetery conducted by the V.F.W. Chaplain. Military Honors will be conducted by the Olson Frary Burkhart Post # 1165 V.F.W The family will receive friends at Cheney Witt Chapel, Tuesday from 1 p.m. until leaving for the cemetery. Memorials are suggested to either the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association and may be sent to Cheney Witt Chapel, P.O. Box 347, 201 S. Main. Fort Scott, Kansas 66701.