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Rick Lee West

Born: 1/21/1952
Died: 7/27/2026
Age: 74
Community: Flint, MI

Rick Lee West, 74, of Flint, Michigan, died on July 27, 2026, after a relatively short battle with lung cancer.
A memorial service will be held 4pm, Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at the Swartz Funeral Home, 1225 West Hill Road, Flint with Pastor Dave Boillat, officiating. The family extends an invitation to join them at Sharky’s Sports Bar following the service for a fellowship dinner.
Visitation 1pm Tuesday until the time of the service at the funeral home.
Rick will be laid to rest at a later date at Flint Memorial Cemetery beside his wife, Deborah West.
Rick was born on January 21, 1952, in Flint, Michigan, to John "Jack" West and Betty (Baker) West and was also blessed to have his mother Smilia "Sammy" West, who provided him with love, guidance, and support throughout his life. Rick shared a close bond with his father, a relationship he cherished deeply and one that remained among the most meaningful in his life. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Left to cherish his memory are his five children, Shannon (Marc) Bochenek, Tracy West, Jamie West, Rick (Angela) West, and Renae (Ken) Titus. He also leaves behind his ten grandchildren: Hunter, Jace, Gabrielle, Jaydon, Braylen, Kendall, Connor, Grant, Seth, and Aubrey.
Rick will also be remembered by his siblings, Kim (Jeff) Herr, Randy Watson, and Jeff (Wendy) Watson. He was preceded in death by his brother, Scott Watson.
On September 30, 2005, Rick married Deborah West. Together they shared many happy years until her passing on August 18, 2013. Rick fondly remembered the life they built together and the years they shared. Through Debbie, Rick gained four stepchildren, Amy Jankowski, Corey (Melissa) Wood, Pamela Wood, and Michelle Wood, as well as nine step-grandchildren: Codey, Arianna, Jacob, Tanner, Austin, Kaiden, Lacey, Ian, and Joel.
Rick was a loyal and dedicated employee of General Motors Flint Truck & Bus, where he worked for 33 years before retiring in 2006 at the age of 54. His exceptional attendance reflected the pride he took in his work and his commitment to fulfilling his responsibilities.
Retirement suited Rick well. He enjoyed spending time on the golf course, watching television, cheering on the Detroit Lions, Detroit Tigers, and Detroit Red Wings, making trips to the grocery store, and maintaining his lawn. He found contentment in familiar routines and the simple moments that brought him happiness.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Michelle Wood and Ian Wood for their patience, compassion, and exceptional care during Rick's illness. Their kindness and dedication are deeply appreciated. The family also thanks the physicians, nurses, and staff at Henry Ford Genesys Hospital for the outstanding care they provided during the final months of Rick's life.
Rick found happiness in the ordinary moments of life. Those who knew him will remember him in their own way, carrying with them the memories they shared and the personality that made Rick who he was. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Your condolences may be shared with the family at swartzfuneralhomeinc.com








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  Swartz Funeral Home & Cremation Center
1225 West Hill Road
Flint, MI 48507

Phone: (810) 235-2345

Web Site: http://www.swartzfuneralhomeinc.com

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Visitation
Date:   8/4/2026
Time:   1:00 PM
Visitation 1pm Tuesday until the time of the service at the funeral home.
 
Funeral Service
Date:   8/4/2026
Time:   4:00 PM
 
Location:   Swartz Funeral Home & Cremation Center
1225 West Hill Road
Flint, MI 48507

Get a Map to this location...

Official:   Pastor Dave Boillat

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