Shirley and Carl are both natives of Central New York. They lived in Union Springs for 23 years early in their married life. The Central New York community is where they chose to raise their family. They now live south of Auburn where they have been for more than 34 years. The Wests are grateful to be a part of the community that they love.
Shirley mostly worked in their home when their children were small, sometimes doing part-time work in the school district as an RN. Carl was the chief financial officer for a local feed company until 1987 and later worked in several financial positions until his retirement in 2000. In the late 80’s, Shirley took a part-time position as a nurse, with the County WIC program where she worked for 13 years.
They have both benefitted from being engaged in their community. Carl was active in the Union Springs Lions Club for 25 years and served on the Village Board for 14 years. They are both very active in their church and have always supported numerous charities.
They were first introduced to us in 2007 after the passing of their daughter, Michele. They established a scholarship fund in her memory to encourage and assist other bright, driven young students to achieve and excel in the way that Michele had during her life. They are pleased to have established this perpetual award in her name and consider this to be a part of their legacy in Union Springs.
Carl and Shirley have also written their estate plan to include a bequest. They felt it is fitting that they use these funds to give back to their community. This money will provide perpetual support to several local charities that are important to them. They envision that this fund will continue to make a positive impact in this community for generations to come.
“We take pleasure knowing that these funds directed to the Community Foundation – through our estate or other beneficiary designations – will be used to help people who live in this region we have called home for their entire lives,” they said. “We are proud to know that the fund will reflect our love and appreciation for the people in this area who mean so much to us. We are confident that the Community Foundation will honor our wishes for this legacy fund in perpetuity.”
