Wesley Dean Carpenter

Wes, as he was better known, was born on May 16, 1944 in Springfield, Missouri to Lilly Viola Chapman and Frank Wince. At a young age, Wes and his mother moved to Santa Barbara, California. He grew up a self-proclaimed cowboy and outdoorsman, in love with the ocean, hills, and long stretches of road boasted by southern California. He attended Santa Barbara High School where he played football and met many lifelong friends.

At the age of 21, Wes enlisted in the United States Army and served two valiant tours in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne Division, “Screaming Eagles.” He served as a Sergeant and was awarded the Bronze Star for his heroic and meritorious service. At the time of his service, Wes was married to Rita Ann Braught of Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Together they had two children, Arleigh and Karen Carpenter.

Wes spent the majority of his life working at the Santa Barbara harbor as a seafood broker. He was a pioneer in the urchin industry and known for his fairness and generosity towards others – in business and in life. It was at the harbor that Wes met Priscilla Dowd of Needham, Massachusetts and together they had a daughter, Kelly Carpenter.

Wes is loved and remembered by many for his larger-than-life heart and humor, and incredible strength of spirit and zest for life. Wes passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Saturday, May 13, 2023 in Portland, Oregon. Wes was predeceased by his son, Arleigh Carpenter; his partner of 20 years, Linda Frey; his best friend, Archie MacPhee; and beloved mother, aunts, and uncles. He is survived by his daughters, Karen and Kelly Carpenter, and grandchildren, Arleigh Jr., Kayleigh, and Kolby. Family and friends will gather on August 12th, 2023, to celebrate and honor Wes’s beautiful life. Please contact (805) 453-4844 for details.