Michael West Sr. aka “Truck”

Hi, my name is Robert Fernandez, but old and close family and friends know me by my nickname Sonny. I was born on March 27, 1963, in New Rochelle, NY. But 4 days earlier, on March 23rd, someone else was born. His name was Michael West. Only God knew what a positive impact he would have on my life and many other people.

Growing up, our lives were connected in every way: family, friends, sports, especially football! Mike and I were raised during the 1970s and 80s in New Rochelle, NY, and we played “the game” on every level as we grew up. We started at Youth Tackle League, then Albert Leonard Middle School, followed by playing for New Rochelle High School, and finally Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven, CT. As you can imagine, I had hundreds of teammates, but only Mike has been with me at every level. Mike West Sr. and I have been close friends our entire lives.

When I look back over our lives together, we were both super competitive, but we understood that there was no 'I' in team. This motto spilled over into Mike’s “everyday” life, which helped our friendship and respect for each other to grow. One thing I loved and remember about my friend was Mike’s ability to walk into a room and calm “storms” with his beautiful smile, big heart, and wisdom. I will miss that.

On December 26, 2024, I was informed Mike West Sr. had passed from this world. I pray that he is with our Lord and Savior with no more pain in his body. But as for me, my heart is so heavy with sadness. I miss my friend. We said, “let’s grow old together,” on 3/23 and again on 3/27 for years. I will be struggling with this loss in my life. As for the family and friends of Mike’s that are grieving over their loss, I know Jesus, “the Great Comforter,” is there for me as well as them.

On behalf of the family, we say thank you for the many heartfelt prayers, phone calls, texts, social media posts, etc., in loving memory of Mike West. Moving forward in his honor and memory, this Memorial Fund will be started in his name. So if you have a heart like Mike’s and you wish to contribute to his memorial fund, you can donate here. The funds received will be used to offset the cost of the funeral expenses this is not limited to but includes scholarships for the education of his grandchildren and/ or a family foundation.

Thank you and God bless you