Ardella "Dell" West

Ardella D. "Dell" West passed away on Thursday, August 18, 2011 in Redding, CA. She was surrounded by her loving family who held vigil for three days. She was encircled with prayers, laughter, storytelling and many tears. When she was ready and she knew her family was ready, she joined her son, Kirk, who preceded her in 2003. Dell was born in Troy, Idaho on May 25, 1931 to Esther and Palmer Mathison. She turned 18 on May 25, 1949, graduated high school the next day and married the love of her life, Leland West the following day while Lee was home on furlough from the Army. A busy three days! In May of this year Dell enjoyed family and friends at her 80th birthday party, and she and Lee celebrated 62 years of marriage at the same time. A legacy that will be hard to follow. Dell was a homemaker, 4-H leader, Cub Scout den mother, lifetime member of the Eastern Star and longtime member of the Trailriders. She was a wonderful cook and could feed an extra family at a moments notice. Dell enjoyed sewing, knitting and crocheting and donated many items to various organizations. She enjoyed spending time with family, including her 12 grandchildren who still talk about their summers at Grandma's pool. Her poolside time and fudgecicles are some of their fondest memories. She was eventually blessed with 23 great grandchildren who also experienced her unconditional love. Her passing has left an enormous void in friends as well as family. Fortunately we all have an amazing amount of memories to share and help us through this difficult time. Dell leaves her husband, Leland, a son, Lonny West (Sharon), daughters Karen Sherman (Bink) and Kathy Bishop (Tony), her daughter-in-law Janet West (son Kirk passed away in May, 2003) and her brother, Donald Mathison (Francis.) A large extended family also mourn her passing. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, August 27th, 2011 at 3:00 PM at Lonny and Sharon West's home at 1805 Yreka Ager Road in Yreka. The family will serve barbecued meat for the gathering, and ask that friends bring their favorite dish or dessert. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one's choice.

Ardella "Dell" West

May 25, 1931 - August 18, 2011