Bryson Ralph West

Bryson journeyed to heaven just two days before his 31st birthday. A loved Son, Grandson, Brother, Nephew, Cousin, and Friend — will be missed by all.

Bryson was a "Brave and Courageous Young Man", gripping a strong passion for life, and exploring the outside world around him. He was free-spirited, adventurous, and loving in his deep connection to the outdoors and nature. Bryson's excitement for adventure was evident to those who knew him and watched, as he traveled the vast beautiful landscapes of the United States & Canada. His most favored viewpoint was that of an open boxcar, riding the rails of freight trains with the sound of diesel engines. His only belongings within his backpack and pockets were the necessary supplies for the ride. Bryson traveled extensively throughout North America in all weather conditions, no matter winter, spring, summer, or fall, he learned the skillful ability to endure what came his way.

Bryson carried more than a heavy backpack. Schizophrenia was a heavy weight upon his shoulders. His greatest battle and his greatest achievement was adapting to life under the conditions of this illness, and never to complain. Bryson humbly and courageously moved forward each day. 

Most of us take for granted our mental health, we cannot begin to imagine the world perceived through the eyes of those with schizophrenia. Bryson is Loved and Forever will be Loved. 

Bryson fought hard against schizophrenia, an illness not his fault, nor did he deserve. Through it all and between his struggles He Lived, He Laughed and He Loved. 

Bryson also traveled outside continental North America and he traveled internationally. Aside from family vacations in Hawaii, Mexico, and other places, the summer of 2008 found him on a mission/work trip in Costa Rica, living with a local host family. Graduation year, 2009/2010 he lived on the east coast USA in New Hampshire, attending a wilderness expedition school called "Kroka". Year-round studies of organic farming, topped with a high adventure trip to Ecuador climbing mountains, rafting the Amazon River, and visiting local native tribes of the rainforest to observe and witness their traditions.

Following graduation, Bryson moved to Oahu, Hawaii, and lived on an organic farm. Later he returned home to spend precious time, traveling freight trains abroad, enjoying the backpacking lifestyle - He so loved the rails. 

Bryson lived in many places besides the outdoors of North America. Born in Atlanta, Georgia, moving at age 2 to White Rock, BC, age 3, to Eugene, Oregon. Age 5, to Bellingham, WA., age 17, to Hawaii. At the age of 19, moved to the province of British Columbia, Canada. There, he lived for a time in Richmond, Kitsilano, Williams Lake, Gibsons, and Prince George. Bryson was a well-traveled, high adventure-seeking soul. 

Bryson will always be remembered by his family, friends, and others who knew him for who he truly was, as a loving, caring, gentle, and generously thoughtful person. Bryson was always one to share what he had or charitably give all to help someone else. Material items of this world had little or no importance to him.

Many more attributes of Bryson are not mentioned here. These are his prominent characteristics that stood forth in his later years. We are all so grateful for our years together.

Love You, Bryson.