BLAIRSVILLE, Ga. -- Here is the message about the death of Coach Mike West posted by Union County High School officials on the school's Web site:

Union County High School is deeply saddened by the loss of Coach Mike West. Coach West's dedication and love for the game was contagious, and he was respected and loved by the faculty and students at Union County High School. Our hearts go out to his wife, Jeanna, and two sons, Christopher and Clayton.

Funeral Arrangements are being made through Cochrans Funeral Home in Blairsville but are incomplete at this time. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established for the West family at United Community Bank:

Coach Mike West Memorial Fund

c/o United Community Bank

P.O. Box 398

Blairsville, Georgia 30514

(706) 745-2151