Richard Lee Westbrook

Richard Westbrook of Longmont, CO was born on October 3, 1933 in Alabama and died surrounded by his family at Longmont United Hospital after suffering a massive heart attack on January 29, 2018. He’s survived by his wife Gloria Westbrook, son Gary Westbrook, Brother Kenneth Westbrook, 5 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren. He was a devoted husband, loving father, amusing grandfather, and captivating friend to all. Growing up he would hunt hogs to help put meat on the table. There were times during the Prohibition, he hauled moonshine to help the family with finances. He joined the Army in 1951. Rich was in special forces stationed in Germany while serving his country. After the military he worked at John Deer in Illinois as a welder. Rich was married at an early age and fathered 2 boys, Larry and Gary and later was divorced. His fathering included teaching those boys how to hunt and fish as this was his passion. I can remember my dad telling me he met a beautiful lady at a dance where he had to dress up in a costume, of course he dressed up as a country boy wearing a straw hat and overalls. Well he ended up marring this lady, Gloria Hamilton who also raised a boy, Mickie. Rich, worked for Boulder Valley Schools for over 24 years as the Maintenance Manger for the district. After retiring, Rich kept on working, doing odd jobs as a carpenter. He would finish basements, install new cabinets, bathrooms, roofs, and painting to mention a few. Well, I think you get the picture, there wasn’t anything he couldn’t do. I remember he bought an old Class A motor home. He rebuilt the engine, installed a new gas tank while leaving the original 100 gallon as a reserve, put in new carpeting and cabinets. He also painted the outside. All because this was one thing he had not done before. Both Gloria and Rich were avid bowlers. They spent many hours trying to perfect their games. Rich couldn’t hold a candle to Gloria, she is a talented bowler. He was an amazing storyteller, and captivated his grandchildren in the memories of his life. Rich left a legacy of “no” not being in his vocabulary for helping people. Anyone who knew Rich could call upon his wisdom , experience and support, knowing they could always count on him. This man, in addition to being a good husband, partner, father and grandfather, was a friend to everyone. Rich will be missed by all who knew him Service Information Graveside Service Friday February 2, 2018 1:00 PM Longmont Mountain View Cemetery 620 11th Ave Longmont, CO 80501 Reception Friday February 2, 2018 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM Carroll-Lewellen Funeral Chapel 503 Terry Street Longmont, CO 80501