David Carl West, known affectionately as Dave, peacefully passed away on April 26, 2025, at the age of 81 at home in Conway, South Carolina. Born September 25, 1943, in Long Branch, New Jersey, and raised in nearby Monmouth Beach, Dave lived a life marked by love, humor, adventure, a deep respect for tradition, and without a shadow of doubt unwavering loyalty.

A 1961 graduate of Long Branch High School, Dave carried with him a methodical nature and a dry wit that endeared him to all who knew him. He was a loving and traditional family man, embodying the roles of son, husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend with genuine care, quiet strength, and a generous spirit.

An avid outdoorsman, Dave spent his life traveling the world in pursuit of hunting and fishing adventures. He was a passionate supporter of outdoor education and conservation efforts and proudly served as a member of Safari Club International. His passion for the outdoors was matched only by his lifelong devotion to Clemson football and his enthusiasm for NASCAR—so much so that he even took several laps in race cars, experiencing the thrill of high-speed driving at multiple racetracks.

Dave also dedicated himself to service in his community. He was a proud member of the Monmouth Beach Fire Company for over 60 years, a commitment that reflected his deep sense of duty, loyalty, and camaraderie.

Professionally, Dave spent more than 30 years as a cross-country over-the-road truck driver, mastering the highways long before GPS existed—earning a reputation as “Google Maps before it was invented.” After retiring from driving, he continued to lead and mentor others as Operations Manager for S&M United Van Lines Moving Systems for 22 years. A true entrepreneur, he also founded several businesses and concluded his professional journey as Chief Financial Officer for Diversified Logistic Services. Dave’s remarkable skill with numbers—his ability to act as a “human calculator”—was admired by all who knew him.

Outside of work and hunting, Dave enjoyed snowmobiling, reading, watching sports, and relaxing with his favorite country music artists, including Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and the Oak Ridge Boys.

Dave is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Lynn; his children, Michael West, Marie (Dellaquila) Welsh, and Anthony Dellaquila; his siblings, Bob West (Sharon), Nancy Belton, and Kathy Heggie; sister-in-law, Donna West; and his grandchildren, Kristen Welsh (Nick Piazza), Dylan Dellaquila, and Isabella Dellaquila; and many nieces and nephews, as well as great nieces and great nephews. Dave was also a devoted loving "Dad" to his many pets throughout the years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Astrid and Reverend W. Winfield West, and his brother, Peter West.

His steadfast spirit, gentle humor, and legacy of love, service, and adventure will continue to live on in the many lives he touched.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 6, 2025 from 4 pm until the time of Firemen's Service at 7:30 pm at the Damiano Funeral Home, 191 Franklin Avenue in Long Branch. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home at 10:30 am on Wednesday, May 7th. Interment will follow at Woodbine Cemetery in Oceanport.

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