BATH, NEW YORK — Joan A. West, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and longtime member of the Bath community, passed away peacefully at home on May 4, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She was 92 years old.
Born on April 26, 1934, in Shavertown, New York, located in the Catskill Mountains, Joan lived a life defined by compassion, dedication, and unwavering love for her family and community. Her passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of all who knew her, but her memory will continue to live on through the countless lives she touched throughout her remarkable journey.
Joan A. West was widely known for her warm smile, generous spirit, and kind heart. Family members describe her as the true heart of the family — someone whose presence brought comfort, joy, and stability to those around her. Whether through simple acts of kindness, heartfelt conversations, or unconditional support, Joan made everyone feel welcomed and loved.
For 30 years, Joan faithfully served at the Bath Veterans Affairs Medical Center, dedicating her professional life to caring for others. Her years of service at the Bath VAMC reflected her strong work ethic, compassion, and commitment to helping veterans and fellow staff members alike. Even after retirement, she remained deeply respected by those who knew and worked alongside her.
In addition to her career, Joan was an active and devoted member of several local organizations. She was a life member of the VFW Post 1470 Ladies Auxiliary and also held membership with the American Legion Post 173. Her involvement in these organizations demonstrated her deep appreciation for veterans, community service, and fellowship.
Joan was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Merle A. West; her parents, Lynn and Ann Miller; and her brother, Alton Miller. Though she experienced loss throughout her life, she remained a source of strength and encouragement for her family.
She is survived by her loving daughters, Sue Pietrzak and husband Tom of Bath, and Shari Kashmer and husband David of Hammondsport. Joan also leaves behind five grandchildren who cherished her deeply: Wendy Distasio and husband Kent of Lima, Steven Pietrzak and wife Kim of Simpsonville, South Carolina, Tyler Kashmer and Greg of Bath, Kendra Kashmer and Shane of Corning, and Kristin Kashmer of Canisteo.
One of Joan’s greatest joys in life was spending time with her nine adored great-grandchildren: Nicholas and Dominic DiStacio, Hayden Miller, Blake and Kyla Pietrzak, Savanna Miller, Carter Drake, Khyson Miller, and Lane Dickinson. Her family says she treasured every moment shared with them and loved watching her family continue to grow through the generations.
Friends and loved ones continue to remember Joan for her kindness, quiet strength, and endless devotion to those she cared about most. Her family shared the heartfelt reminder: “Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day.”
Calling hours for Joan A. West will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Bond-Davis Funeral Home in Bath, New York. Her funeral service will take place immediately following visitation at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Nondaga Cemetery in Bath.
In honor of Joan’s caring nature and generous spirit, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Finger Lakes SPCA in Bath.
Joan A. West’s legacy of love, service, and compassion will remain forever in the hearts of her family, friends, and the Bath community she proudly called home.