Albert Lea Packers shortstop
Joey Raso
For the first time in his life Gordy West admitted he was speechless. The occasion was last night when fans turned out 3,153 strong at Hayek Field to pay him a much deserved tribute. The veteran Packer outfielder was greatly moved at the fans' reaction and thanked them from his bottom of his big heart for the splendid gifts and cash donations they heaped upon him. Gordy got about everything in the book. He was awarded a paid up membership from his lodge, the Eagles; fans and merchants, and even small children, gave among other prizes a radio, outboard motor, shirts, hats, a watch, cigaret lighter, a suit of clothes, a shotgun, beer and other valuable merchandise prizes and cash. On hand for the ceremonies were Gordy's wife and mother ... For Gordy it was a big night. Besides being honored he banged out a pair of important hits as the Packers handed Cannon Falls its first defeat of the season, 6-4. (Albert Lea Evening Tribune, August 3, 1950)
Above left - West scores the winning run in the eighth inning. Right - West with his wife Pearl and mother Emma.