James Rutan West, Longtime Westfield Resident, Athlete and Sports Instructor
James Rutan West, born in Bordentown, N.J., in 1957 to Joan Nicholson West and Donald West, passed on Friday, July 26, 2024, after a valiant battle with cancer. He is survived by his son, Brandon Underhill West (New York); mother, Joan Peiffer-Stanley (New Jersey); siblings, David West (California), Donna Peiffer-Both (Pennsylvania) and Cindy West-Schaefer (New Jersey); ex-spouse, Gail Underhill (North Carolina); partner, Meg Clark (New Jersey), and two generations of nieces/nephews.
Though a natural athlete, nationally ranked tennis player and first season scratch golfer, his true talent was teaching these sports. A longtime Westfield resident, many remember his Pro shop at Mountainside Indoor Tennis Center. Childhood summers in Ocean City included both tennis and surfing contests while school endeavors included soccer team and music. Jim did everything with passion, including various business ventures, but fostering relationships was his greatest passion. He put heart and soul into family and friends; listening, caring and always reaching out. Those blessed with his stories, photos and laughter have Jim in their hearts forever. Jim’s life will be celebrated on Friday, August 16, 2024, at 5:30 p.m., at Christ Church Riverton, 500 4th Street, Riverton, N.J. 08077 (856-8291634), and Saturday, August 17, at 5:30 p.m., with a Paddle Out on 4th Street beach in Ocean City, N.J.
Arrangements are by Gray Funeral Home of Westfield.
August 8, 2024
