Merritt Eugene "Buddy" WEST, 79, of Mt. Vernon died 6:52 p.m. April 4, 1998, at Good Samaritan Regional Health Center.

He was employed for several years as an oil field worker and later was associated with McDermott Salvage. Co.

Mr. WEST was born September 21, 1918, in Mt. Vernon, a son of Andrew F. WEST and Lena (OLIVER) WEST. He never married.

Per request of Mr. WEST, his body will be creamated and the cremated remains will be buried at the Cub Prairie Cemetery at 1 Friday. Graveside services will be held at the cemetery, located near the Illinois State Game Farm, with Mr. Randy SELLS officiating. No public visitation will be held. Hughey Funeral Home in in charge of the services. Military flag presentation services will be conducted by the chaplain of American Legion Post 141 of Mt. Vernon.

Mr. WEST is survivied by one sister, Thelma VANHORN of Mt. Vernon; one nephew, Jim DENHAM and wife Angie of Swansea; one niece Thelma L. PEELER of Mt. Vernon; three great-nieces, Susan LYDEN and husband Ed of Las Vegas, Nev.; Becky TROUTMAN of Kansas City, Mo.; and Nanette TROUTMAN of Kansas City, Mo.; two great nephews, Jack McHENRY of California and Mike DENHAM and wife Debbie of Florrissant, Mo.; several cousins and dear friend Joe McDERMOTT of Mt. Vernon. Mr. WEST was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Geneva McHENRY; and a nephew, Lt. John D. VANHORN of the U.S. Coast Guard.

He was a member of the Christian faith. He was an Army veteran of World War II serving with the 36th Armored Infantry Regiment of the 3rd Armored Division. He graduated from Mt. Vernon Township High School.

Source: Mt. Vernon Register-News
Date: Monday, April 6, 1998
Submitted by: Mary Zinzilieta