Obituary: Richard A. Lewis
Author: Family of Richard A. Lewis
Richard A. Lewis
Family of Richard A. Lewis
Richard A Lewis, our loving grandfather, father, husband, and mentor, passed away peacefully in his home, Friday, June 28, 2024. He was surrounded by his family until the end.
Gramps was born June 25, 1939, in Whitehall, Wisconsin, to Andrew Ernest and Edna Semb Lewis, the first of 3 children. After high school, he joined the Marines in 1957 and was stationed in Japan as a helicopter mechanic.
In October 1960, his life was forever changed when he met the love of his life, Bonnie Hulst, on a blind date. All these years later, Gramps could still recall the events of that night and the song they first danced to: The Blue Skirt Waltz by Frankie Yankovic.
They were married on New Year's Eve 1962. To say that he has been madly in love ever since would be quite the understatement.
After getting married, Gram and Gramps moved to Montana where Gramps got his Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Technologies from the University of Montana in 1968. Later in life, Gramps earned his Master of Science in Broadfield Teaching of Biological Sciences.
After college, Gramps began what would become his greatest joy and passion: teaching. Overall, he taught science for 30 years (1969 to 1999) at Geraldine High School. He was also the leader of Boy Scouts of America Troop 75 and a Montana Hunter Safety instructor for 45 years. His students loved him, and we continually hear stories about how much he impacted their lives. It was obvious that they, in turn, impacted his life.
Gramps was a strong Christian and an excellent example of how to live a God-centered life. His favorite Bible verse is 2 Samuel 22:31 “As for God, His way is perfect; The word of the Lord is tried: He is a buckler to all them that trust in Him.”
After retirement, he moved with Gram to Townsend where they have lived out their days near the base of Mount Baldy, along the banks of Ray Creek. Many of us know their home as a real-life heaven-on-earth.
Gramps was never one to toot his own horn, though he had much to be proud of. He was a titan of a man in our eyes. His kindness, generosity, and fun-loving spirit are a legacy that will live on long after he is gone. We strive to be like him, to care for others the way he has. Even in his final weeks, his concern was always for Gram.
If you know Gramps or if he has somehow touched your life, please think about him this week. He is in a better place now. One where he will continue to teach and continue to love those around him. A place where his grandson, Andrew, is waiting to greet him. We miss him more than can be said, but we will see him again soon. Most likely, he’s already put in a request that his mansion in paradise be built with a good view down on us and Gram.
He is survived by his wife Bonnie, his four children Colt (Sandi) Lewis, Colette Murley, Tanya (Victor) Murphy, and Tavia (Brian, deceased) Hulme, his brother Don (Nancy) Lewis, 11 grandkids, and 4 great grandkids.
He is preceded in death by his parents, his sister Barb Amundson, and his grandson, Andrew Murley.
“Come home, come home; You who are weary come home; Earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling, Calling, O sinner, come home!”
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Family of Richard A. Lewis
