It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Bill Lewis, in Ottawa, on Saturday, February 10, 2024, with family by his side.
He was the son of Rev. Wendell and Irene Lewis (Morris) of Turner Valley, Alberta. He leaves in mourning his son Michael, daughters Ann Marie (Jean-Pierre) and Jennine, along with his much loved grandson Calvin (Alyssa). Predeceased by his wife, Katherine (nee Farrell), sister Jean Grey (Larry), brothers-in-law, Terry (Sybil), Michael (Teddie), Norman, and sister-in-law Margaret. He is survived by his sister-in-law Millie Farrell, many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Born in Matsqui, B.C., his family eventually moved to Turner Valley Alberta. He joined the Royal Canadian Horse Artillery in 1950. Bill enjoyed at 39 year career having served in many locations across Canada and the World, including Korea and Cyprus. After returning from Korea, he met our Mom in Truro, Nova Scotia. He became an Army Pilot (Air Op) and received his wings at Rivers, Manitoba. He became an Army helicopter pilot and was proudly the first Commanding Officer of 444 Tactical Helicopter Squadron in Lahr, Germany.
A true renaissance man, he loved fishing, sailing, travelling, gardening, skiing, reading, playing piano, military tattoos, hymns, and building/fixing anything he could get his hands on. He was a compassionate man who loved his family, children, his friends, neighbours, meeting new people, animals and helping others, especially through the Kiwanis Club of Nepean. He was the recipient of a Governor General’s Caring Canadian award.
We wish to thank the most caring team of neuroscience nurses and doctors at the Ottawa Civic Hospital. A private interment of Bill’s remains will occur in the Spring of 2024 at Beechwood National Military Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Wounded Warriors Canada or your local Humane Society.
Stand Easy
Livre de visiteurs
Pam Richardson
Paul and Barb
Gone, but not forgotten
Sylvia Dmytryshyn(nee Pylypow)
I enjoyed my visits with Bill in Ottawa on occasion and the telephone chats over the past few years; a lovely man who will be thought of often.
Gordon Clark
I was sorry to hear of Bill's passing. He was a good friend dating back to our days together in the Nepean Kiwanis Club. We spent many Saturday mornings together at the Christmas tree lot. His dedication to the Youville Centre in Ottawa was a testament to his community involvement. Condolences to his family.
Irene
I will never forget Major Lewis, he was the first to offer me a civilian job at DND. I was just out of high school and was thrilled at the opportunity. I worked in his office until he retired. He was a great role model. The office had great times at his cottage, we all looked forward to that day in the summer! My deepest sympathies to the family. RIP Major Lewis 🙏
Glenn Pushman
I was sad to hear of Bill's passing. I remember the Kiwanis Christmas Tree lot near CJOH where we spend many hours selling Christmas trees, our twice annual clean-up of Woodroffe Avenue and collecting used vacuums to give to the young women housed by the Youville Centre which Bill supported whole heartily. R.I.P. Bill, gone but not forgotten.
So enjoyed the years with Bill in Nepean Kiwanis. HIs leadership of the Christmas tree lot was legendary! Sincere condolences to his family