Richard D. "Dick" Lewis
June 13, 1931 — March 23, 2008
76, of Van Wert, died at 8:45 a.m. Sunday, March 23, 2008, at Vancrest Health Care Center in Van Wert.
He was born June 13, 1931, in Van Wert County, the son of the late John and Fara (Carmean) Lewis. On March 5, 1969, he married Betty L. (Jenkins) Lewis, who survives in Van Wert.
Mr. Lewis had worked in the railway tower on North Chestnut Street for many years and retired from Kennedy Manufacturing after 27 years. He was a loving husband, father, grandpa and friend to all he met. He enjoyed fishing, camping and horse races. He spent many hours cutting firewood with his friend, Dave Baer, in the woods. He enjoyed the Gaithers on Saturday evening, but his favorite was polka music. He also had served as a trustee on the Van Wert County Fair Board.
In addition to his wife, survivors include seven children, Maurice Lewis of Middle Point, Marvin (Linda) Lewis Bill Lewis, David Taylor and Beth Engstrand, all of Indiana, Jon (Linda) Lewis of Grover Hill and Jenni (Eric) Profit of Van Wert; a brother, Ed Lewis of Florida; one sister, Sharon (Dick) Wreede of Delphos; 12 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.
A son, Gregg Lewis, and one brother, John Lewis Jr., also preceded him in death.
Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, March 27, at Brickner Funeral Home in Van Wert, with the Rev. Paul W. Miller officiating. Burial will be in Ridge Cemetery near Middle Point.
Visitation is from 3-8 p.m. Wednesday, March 26, at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Van Wert DARE program or a charity of the donor's choice.