Raleigh West

Raleigh Scott West, 44, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away on December 2, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on April 4, 1981, in Topeka, Kansas. Raleigh was uniquely wired for patterns, logic, and systems, and he carried those gifts into both his education and career. He graduated from Hayden High School in 2000 and Washburn University in 2009 with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Science and a minor in Mathematics, later building a professional career as a full-stack developer. Technology came naturally to him; it was a place where his talents took shape and where his abilities had room to shine. Outside of work, Raleigh found joy in the imaginative universes he loved — Warhammer lore, strategy games, artisanally painted figurines, sci-fi movies, and treasured the community he built in both physical and digital realms. He had a remarkable attention to detail, whether in code or in the meticulous way he painted figurines, turning them into tiny works of art. These interests were more than hobbies. Those in his circle knew him as loyal, thoughtful, and deeply sincere. He expressed care through thoughtful gestures, a well-timed meme or 1-liner when you need it most, and his steadfast presence. Raleigh was a proud uncle to his nieces and nephews, and a loyal sibling whose devotion to his family was steady and enduring. He faced life with honesty and resilience, navigating both his strengths and challenges in his own steady way. Raleigh will be remembered for his brilliant mind, his individuality, and the unmistakable way he moved through the world on his own terms. Those who knew him take comfort in knowing he found places where he could flourish and belong, and that he was held with love throughout his journey by many. Raleigh is survived by his loving parents, Ed and Jeanine Heinisch and Thomas and Kim West; siblings, Tom and Maria West, Jenny and Jared Lambrecht, and Jeremy West; grandmothers, Barbara Reser and Sue Bussard; and numerous loving aunts, uncles, and cousins who loved him dearly. His Nieces and Nephews, John, William and Emily West and Estelle and Calvin Lambrecht, will forever remember Raleigh as their uncle who was always up to play games and tell funny jokes. He carried his Catholic faith steadily, and his family takes comfort knowing he is at peace in God’s care. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered. Memorial contributions may be made to Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church, in care of the funeral home. Visitation will be from 5 to 6:30 p.m. and rosary will be prayed at 6:30 p.m. Friday, December 5, 2025, at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Road, 2801SW Urish Road, Topeka KS 66614. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Most Pure Heart of Mary, 3601 SW 17th Street, Topeka KS 66604. Condolences may be sent online at www.kevinbrennanfamily.com

Raleigh West

April 4, 1981 - December 2, 2025