John R. West ’55

John, a remarkably genial classmate known to many as “Quince,” died May 5, 2022, after many months of declining health in Sacramento, Calif. 

John had an amazing number of interests and skills. He was an accomplished general surgeon, longtime partner in a Ford dealership and licensed pilot who loved to sing and whistle and to study French, Spanish, and German. At Princeton, he was musical director of the Nassoons, an experience he treasured for the rest of his life. 

John was born Sept. 13, 1933, in Rockford, Ill. He attended Hinsdale Township (Ill.) High School, where he participated in student government, glee club, basketball, and dramatics. At Princeton, he majored in biology and joined Cap and Gown. Senior-year roommates were Pete McKinney and John Howell.

John’s daughter Kim Newton said, “Dad’s medical practice was his main love.” However, a neighbor who knew the car business enlisted John as a partner in a Ford dealership. “The neighbor said dad was a silent partner, and he was the best partner he had ever had,” Kim said. John noted the odd professional combination: “Both the docs and the car people couldn’t figure it out. Lots of laughs on all sides.”

John is survived by his wife of 67 years, Carol; daughters Jan West, Kim Newton, and Susan West; and three grandchildren.