The West family is facing an unimaginable loss following the death of their beloved son, Caden West, who was killed in a small aircraft crash on August 1, 2026. He was 27 years old.
For Caden’s parents, laying their son to rest in a beautiful cemetery in Idaho marked one of the hardest days of their lives. Yet amid the overwhelming grief, they are holding tightly to the memories of a young man who lived with purpose, curiosity, ambition, and an unmistakable love for those around him.
Caden loved flying and was working toward a career with the airlines. Becoming a professional pilot was not simply an idea—it was his dream, and he was pursuing it with determination. His passion for aviation was one of the many subjects he shared with his father, alongside conversations about business, motorcycles, and investing.
The crash also left Caden’s brother, Myles, and a close friend seriously injured. Both survived the accident and are reportedly continuing to fight through their injuries. The family has asked for prayers and support for their recovery during this extraordinarily difficult time.
Although Caden’s life ended far too soon, he accomplished an extraordinary amount during his 27 years. He was an Eagle Scout, served a mission in Cincinnati, Ohio, and spent two years working with a film crew covering the Alaska Iditarod. He earned a finance degree from BYU-Idaho and continued learning long after graduation, driven by a natural curiosity about the world around him.
Perhaps most importantly, Caden was deeply loved by his family. He and his brothers spoke every day and shared a bond that went far beyond ordinary sibling relationships. His parents remember him as a delight to his mother and a son who shared a special connection with his father.
Caden was also a grandson, nephew, friend, brother, and cherished member of a family that adored him. His grandfathers, Max Hanks and Henry West, preceded him in death, and his family finds bittersweet comfort imagining their reunion.
The grief is immense, but so is the gratitude for the 27 years they were given with him.
Caden, you were loved. You were cherished. You lived fully. You did it right. 🕊️🤍