Vernon Lee West

Vernon Lee West, 70, of Rio, died at 8:56 a.m. Sunday, January 22, 2017 at home. Vernon was born March 6, 1946 in LeClaire, IA, the son of Earl L. and Rita A. Pellin West. Vern enlisted in the US Army on August 18, 1967, and serving two tours in Vietnam. He was honorably discharged on August 17, 1970. After serving in the Army, he worked many years at Illini Beef and the Rock Island Railroad. Vern enjoyed working in his yard and took great pride in his well manicured lawn. He is survived by two daughters, Michelle (Bryan) Yohe and Leslie (Troy) Engel; four grandchildren; and one great grandson. He is also survived by one brother, Laurie West of Georgia; three sisters, Jessie (Brad) Park of Cape Coral, FL, Bonnie Mountain of Republic, MO, and Naomi Templeton of East Moline; numerous nieces and nephews; along with his companion of 31 years, Karen Fones of Rio. Vern was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Mary Teague; and one brother, Winston "Mike" West. Private family funeral services will be held. Burial with military rites will be in the Rock Island National Cemetery, Rock Island, IL. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson-Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg.