"Rocky and Robyn, I was sorry to learn of the death of Rocky\'s mother, Leona. I didn\'t know her, but I know it\'s hard losing ones mother. You have my sympathy. Kathy (Mueller) Erickson"
In loving memory of
Leona West
July 17, 1931 - January 31, 2021
Leona Marie (Tucker) West was born July 17, 1931 to Nettie and U.B. Tucker and spent most of her childhood near Chatfield, graduating from Eyota High. She was the youngest of eight children and enjoyed life on the farm.
She married Wayne West at the Little Brown Church in Iowa and they were married for over 60 years until his passing in 2012. The family grew and moved frequently following Wayne's construction jobs before getting the chance to own a farm of their own near Fremont and returning to farming for the rest of their lives. Wayne and Leona were partners in the farm work and raising kids, starting slowly and sacrificing for more land and buildings to grow their operation. They went on to earn the Winona County Conservation Farmers of the year and took pride in their crops and cattle, not to mention their flowers and garden. Leona worked several years for Semcac, in Winona and Rushford, and for the Rural Education and Resource Center in St. Charles.
Leona was generous with her time through 4-H activities, the Winona County Fair, Circle Homemakers, the Presbyterian Church and always quick to help a friend. Most of all, she was generous with her gifts in the kitchen. A wonderful cook and baker, Leona never let anyone leave her house without a meal or a treat. Leona and Wayne had been recognized as King and Queen of the Winona County Fair.
Leona's pride and joy were her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, watching them grow, helping them learn and instilling work ethic and values. Leona was fast with a hug or a wooden spoon, depending on what the situation called for and worked tirelessly to provide for her family.
Leona is preceded to heaven by Wayne and survived by sons Rocky (Robyn), Wally (Rose), Lee (Nancy), daughter Janet (late Dean) Pagel and son Tom (Shari). Leona had 10 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. She is survived by a sister Eva Bernard, and sister-in-law, Donna Tucker. She was preceded in death by four brothers and two sisters.
Funeral Services will be 11 a.m. Friday, February 5, 2021 at Hoff Funeral Service in Rushford. A visitation will be Thursday, February 4th 4-6 p.m. and Friday one hour before services, at the funeral home. Burial will follow services in Fremont Scotch Cemetery.
Please share a memory of Leona and view her video tribute, when it becomes available, at www.hofffuneral.com.
Tributes
"I was Leona\'s beautician for many years. She was not only my customer, she was also my friend. Rest In Peace my friend. Lois Barnes (Posted by Mimi S.) "
"I was Leona\'s beautician for years. She was not only my customer, she was my friend. Rest In Peace, my friend. Lois Barnes"
"Sending you all love and prayers. I\'m so sorry to hear about your Mom."
"Leona was a good friend of my mother\'s, and I absolutely adored her. I loved her snappy personality and quick wit and incredible thoughtfulness and generosity. And kindness. She was a special person and will be so missed."
"West Family, I am sorry to hear of Johnny\'s passing. I have many fond memories of her. I am forever grateful for her sharing stories with me of my grandpa Leonard and also for your parents welcoming our family to their farm for visits and hunting. She always made everyone feel welcome and loved (and made sure all were well fed!) I always enjoyed a good, big hug from her when I would see her. Thinking of you during this difficult time. Jamie (Tucker) Norton"
"We are sending our sympathy and prayers. We will not be able to attend the funeral because of the Corona virus. Things are so different now. We regret not being able to see the family and give our condolences. We hope you will all understand. Instead, we will send a card and memorial. With Deepest Sympathy, Donna Tucker and family"
"Aunt Leona would bring Christmas sweet rolls every year on Christmas Eve. It is so true, she never left her house without baked goods for others, nor did she allow anyone to leave her home hungry. She was a GREAT cook and heck of a farmer. Rest in Peace."
"Sorry to read about Leona?s passing. I have good memories of when I was growing up and riding our pony to visit her.She helped out at my wedding. I also remember her dedication to 4-H and the county fair. She will not be forgotten. Lois(Tveten) Dyreson "
"Leona was a very special lady. I always enjoyed visiting with her. Sending thoughts and prayers to all of you during this time."
"Tom, Shari and all your family. We are sorry. ?? Judy & Rick Infanti (Chris Ford?s Mom) "
"My prayers and support go out to the West family from your friends at Lewiston-Altura Elementary. We love Nancy and hope that her family will feel God\'s healing grace in this time of loss. Best wishes! Mr. Buringa"
"Leona\'s energy and enthusiasm for 4-H and the Winona County Fair was always front and center for many years when July was on the calendar. I originally met her when I started in 4-H as her children were ones to \"show me the ropes\" in the beef shows. Later on, I worked with her during many Open Class registrations and judging and so enjoyed her stories along with her forthrightness. Her donation of time and talent was a treasure to many organizations. Your family is in my prayers. Cheryl Nintemann"