Charles E. “Chuck” West, 86, of Austintown passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Tuesday afternoon, June 16, 2026, at his home.

He was born on April 11, 1940, in Youngstown, Ohio, the beloved son of the late Robert C. and Marian B. (Vukovinsky) West.

Chuck was a proud 1958 graduate of Ursuline High School and then he attended Youngstown College where he studied Engineering.

On one autumn evening Chuck was bartending for a family friend when he met the love of his life Patricia E. Quinn. They started dating and were married on October 5, 1963. They spent 55 years together while raising their three beautiful daughters.

Chuck began his career at General Fireproofing in the mail room, where his intelligence, self-teaching skills, and determination quickly set him apart, leading him into the emerging field of computer operations. A true problem-solver, he approached challenges with creativity and insight, often excelling beyond expectations, even stepping in to assist his professors in teaching. He later joined General Motors as a computer programmer, where he played a key role in establishing the computer systems at the Lordstown plant prior to its opening, a contribution he took immense pride in for its impact on the local community. As a true pioneer in the early days of business computing, Chuck went on to a distinguished career at Wean United, serving as Data Processing Manager from 1966 to 1999. During this time, he and two close friends also founded their own computer firm, CDR, where their expertise was sought both nationally and internationally, reflecting Chuck’s lasting influence in the evolving world of technology.

Throughout his life, Chuck held a deep appreciation for science fiction, enjoying films and stories that imagined worlds and technologies far beyond their time. He witnessed many of those once-unimaginable ideas become reality, watching with fascination as science fiction gradually evolved into science fact. His passion for innovation and curiosity about the future were reflected not only in what he watched, but in the pioneering technological work he himself contributed to throughout his remarkable life.

Outside of work, Chuck was known for his love of spending time with his family and friends at their cottage at Lake Milton, affectionately known as “Chuck’s Place.” Many of Chuck’s greatest joys came from his time at the lake. Boating, fishing, and skiing were some of the many activities Chuck enjoyed. In the 1980’s he held the title of the “Oldest barefoot water skier” on the Lake. Chuck looked forward to hosting his “adopted sons” every weekend. He also had a deep appreciation for the wildlife that visited his property.

Chuck was dedicated to his Catholic faith and was a founding member of St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church in Austintown. He was also a lifelong member of the Saxon Club in Youngstown.

Chuck cherished his family (and family dogs) beyond words. Whether it was at the lake, watching movies, talking on the phone, or sharing a bowl of his homemade soup (he was an amazing cook), Chuck treasured the time he spent with those he loved, and he will be deeply missed.

Chuck will always be remembered by his three daughters, Monica (Denny) Bucci, Jessica (Gary) Russell and Marian (Todd) Blessing; four grandchildren, Nicholas (Nikki) Bucci, Jared and Sydney Russell and TJ Blessing; two close nieces, Cheryl Bair and Mary Lou Gibbs and many other loved nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. He will be fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Besides his parents, Chuck was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Patricia “Pat” (Quinn) West; granddaughter, Stephanie Bucci and brother, Bob West.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Chuck’s name to Animal Charity at the following link: https://www.animalcharityofohio.org/

Family and friends may visit and pay tribute to Chuck on Monday, June 22, 2026, from 4 to 7pm at the Rossi & Santucci Funeral Home, 4221 Market St., Boardman.

Additional calling hours will be Tuesday, June 23, 2026, from 9:30 to 10:15 am at the funeral home. A Funeral Mass will follow at 11am at St. Blaise Parish – St. Joseph Church 4545 New Rd, Austintown, OH 44515.

Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery in Austintown.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Rossi & Santucci Funeral Home, 4221 Market St., Boardman.

Family and friends may visit www.rossisantuccifh.com to view this obituary and send condolences to Chuck’s family.