Obituary of Melvin West

Melvin L. West, age 85 of Lagrangeville, NY went onto heaven February 11, 2018 with his wife and niece at his side. He was born February 1, 1933 in Edwardsburg, Michigan to Hugh E. West and Dorothy (Toms) West. After his graduation from Poughkeepsie High School in 1950 he joined the Army and served in the Korean war where he received the occupation Medal Japan, Korean service medal and was the recipient of the Bronze service Star Combat Inf. Badge, United Nations Service Medal. After his return from the Army, he went to work at Daystorm Electric in Poughkeepsie while he commuted to Atlas Barber School in NYC, as well as he became a lock smith by studying at Belsaw Smith School. He has worked at Hudson River and Wassaic Psychiatric Center as a barber and retired from NY State, He then opened his own Mel's Barber Shop in Wappingers Falls, and he has his shop there for 40 years.  In 1951, he met Tomiko Morimoto of Hiroshima, while he was stationed in Japan. They became good friends and later married in Aiken South Carolina on May 18, 1957. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Tomiko Morimoto West, his sister Martha and husband, Walter (Jim) Henion of Hyde Park, NY. He is survived by several nieces and nephews. His nieces, Dorothy Dorney (RN), Marsha Brady and Susan Michael were at his beside to assist him in every way and everyday with such devotion. His nephews Tim West, Hugh West was there to help in comforting their Uncle Mel, too. His hobby was wood working, He built a TORII (gate way to shrine) for his wife and it still stands in his back yard, Birdhouses gifted to many family and friends. Most of all, he loved people and he mentored many young men and women all through his life. He was loved by many and will be greatly missed for his gentle way and his sense of humor.  Visitation will be held on February 19, 2018 at Timothy P. Doyle Funeral Home  371 Hooker Ave, Poughkeepsie NY  from 4:00pm to 7pm. Burial will be private at the convenience of the family.