Richard Harry Lewis (aka “Rich” and “Feezer”) passed away in Sarasota, Florida on 18 November 2023 at the age of 94. He was the fourth child of Harold and Lillian Lewis, born on 19 September 1929 in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Rich served 22 years in the U.S. Navy and retired as a Chief Petty Officer with his retirement ceremony held aboard the U.S.S. Albany (CG-10) on 10 November 1969. He made a world cruise aboard the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Hornet (CVA-12) in 1954-55 and also served tours aboard the U.S.S. Hancock (CVA-19) and U.S.S. Sunnadin (ATA-197). Chief Lewis was a proud veteran of the Korean and Vietnam Wars and also received several medals to include the Joint Service Commendation Medal, as well as earning the China Service Medal, European Occupation Medal and Combat Air Crewman Wings.
Rich was also a Past Master of the Florence Masonic Lodge, Omaha, Nebraska (AF and AM 281), Past High Priest of the Royal Arch, also a member of the Tangier Shrine and served as Commander of the Legion of Honor in Omaha in 1988. He was a member of the American Legion and Disabled American Veterans. In 2021, he was elected to the Council Bluffs, Iowa Hall of Fame for his incredible record as a feather and light weight wrestler at Thomas Jefferson High School, Iowa Teachers College and on various All-Navy teams. He was a three-time Midwest AAU champion between 1947-1957 and named a US Olympic Team alternate.
Rich was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters: Patty Ann and Barbara J, three brothers: Robert F, James H and Thomas H, as well as his wife and mother of his two sons, Margaret Mary Foxall Lewis.
He is survived by two sons: Michael and Mark H and granddaughter: Hayley Rae Sutterby and her husband: Tyler and two step grandsons: Bryson and Landon, as well as his wife of the past 24 years: Joan Freed Lewis who he’d known since grade school.
Rich elected to be cremated and will be laid to rest with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers or any other gifts, Rich asked that you consider donating to Hospice in Iowa City, Iowa in his name.
Service Information:
Venue for Service: Arlington National Ceremony (date TBD)
Pick one service type: Interment
