Rory Creighton West, born on the 11th of October, 1956, peacefully left us on the 4th of January, 2024, after bravely fighting a prolonged illness.
A native of Michigan who has lived in several areas of the state, Rory’s roots were firmly planted in Royal Oak, where he has been a proud resident for 30 years.
In his professional journey, Rory’s passions were diverse. They ranged from being the hard-working owner of Tall Man Painting to his most rewarding job as a Security Officer and EMT at the General Motors world headquarters in Detroit from which he retired in 2022.
Beyond his professional life, Rory was a huge sports fan with his personal favorite naturally being basketball. He was also a mentor, coach and cheerleader for all of his kid’s sports teams from ROYSA soccer, ROSL baseball and softball through anything and everything they played at Addams Middle School, Kimball High School, Royal Oak High School, Grand Valley University and Wayne State University.
In addition, Rory was a diehard Michigan State University sports fan with, of course, MSU basketball and Tom Izzo being his favorite.
Rory also loved music. He enjoyed singing and attended many, many, many concerts at Pine Knob, Joe Louis Arena, Royal Oak Music Theatre, Little Caesar’s Arena, Rockin’ on the Riverfront and other assorted venues with his classic rock loving friends and family. A love affair with music which resulted in a very large collection of concert t-shirts.
Rory is survived by his loving wife, Nancy, daughter, Lindsey and son, Nick. He is also survived by siblings Christopher West (Linda), Kevin West (Christine), Shawn West, Rod West (Patty), Megan Karpan and Amy West. He will forever live on in the hearts of his cousins, aunts, uncles, numerous nieces, nephews, grand nieces, grand nephews and the neighborhood kids for which he was often a human jungle gym and playmate.
He also leaves behind special childhood friends, Randy Shetterly and Brian Shetterly (Becky) as well as the many great friends he made through his life in Royal Oak and his work.
Rory is preceded in death by his parents, Marilyn and Robert West, brother, Andrew West and brother-in-law, Jack Karpan.
A celebration of Rory’s life will be held in the spring/summer.
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This is a great loss of a great man. He meant so much, to so many, and I send sincere condolences to all who knew and cared about him. May the memories of Rory (and those who loved him) remain with all of us during this difficult time. Keeping the family in my prayers.
Nancy, my deepest sympathies to you, your family and friends.
I was one of Rory’s supervisors at the Ren Cen. I also interviewed him when he applied. I knew immediately he was a keeper. He was a highly skilled EMT and a very trustworthy Officer. On a personal level he was a pleasure to converse with. To his family I am s sorry for the grief you feel. You should be very proud of the man he was.
Nancy, I was sad to hear of the passing of your husband Rory. My thoughts are with you. May you find peace and comfort in your husband’s memory.
Nancy, you and your family have my deepest condolences. We’ve been going through similar battles the last year or so and through it all I’ve found comfort in your friendship and advice. I hope you and your kids will always remember the best parts of Rory will always be a part of all of you and you’ll carry those memories with you until one day you see him again.
Love always, Regan
Not only was Rory my Cousin but he was also my Brother in so many ways! His love of live and family was the ultimate gift. I will always be touched by his desire to have fun and give back to us all. Till we meet again sweet cousin and brother! Rest in Peace
Marianne