Patric William Benge West

On September 30, 1992, in Riverside, California, Patric William Benge West entered the world with abundant energy and the sweetest soul. On July 18, 2026, in the same city where his life began, Patric’s journey came to a close — held by love and surrounded by the people who had walked beside him every step of the way.

Patric lived with intention and he found joy in food, cooking, weight training, board games, and the comfort of being with his family.

His first job was at age 18, working alongside his mom at You’re Invited Children’s Center, where he learned how to meet children exactly where they were. Years later, he followed in his father’s path and transitioned into education, serving students in special education at Bryant Elementary until June 2024. Patric had a gift for connection — a way of making others feel safe, seen, and understood.

Also following his passion for food and cooking, he graduated from the Art Institute in 2015 with a Culinary degree and stepped into kitchens that shaped him — the Mission Inn, Disneyland’s Blue Bayou, and others where he poured his creativity and discipline into every plate.

Never one to stop growing, Patric was also working toward his BA in Business Administration at CSUSB, building a future that blended his talent, ambition, and heart.

Strength training became another passion — a place where he pushed himself and found pride in every milestone. He trained for a weightlifting competition right up until his brain surgery in July 2024.

Diagnosed with Neurofibromatosis at age two, Patric grew up facing difficult moments with a steady resolve and an unwavering courage. In the last two years, as he fought to recover from consecutive tumor removal surgeries, when we would ask him how he was feeling he would always answer the same way: “I’m OK because I’m not alone.”

On the morning of his passing, Jami heard a soft echo from a song — “you are not alone, I am here with you.” It was comforting and true to the bond they shared. Patric was never alone. His village stood with him, and he felt it.

Patric’s family was the center of his world. He is loved endlessly by his mother Jami West, his father Jonathan West, and his Apu Angie Mahnkey. He is cherished by his siblings Kristina Gordon (Nathan), Sabrina Davis (William), and Jesusita Gomez. His nephews and nieces — Kayden, Theo, Rowen, Malikai, and Dawsyn — adored him and will carry his memory forward in their own lives.

Patric’s story is one of resilience, humor, devotion, and heart. He lived fully. He loved fiercely. And he leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and family.

A celebration of Patric’s life will be held on July 31st at 5:30 PM at The Verve, Pine Street, Riverside, CA 92501. We look forward to sharing a meal and hearing stories and memories about Patric, honoring the beautiful life he lived and the love he gave so freely.