Thomas Joseph Lewis

On Tuesday, February 3, 2015, the spirit of our beloved Thomas Joseph Lewis was released to heaven. He will be sadly missed and forever missed by his sisters, Patricia Bryan of Coachman’s Cove, Newfoundland, Canada, and Monica Kruse and Marie Ladd, both of Van Wert. A large circle of extended family and dear friends will treasure fond memories of Tom.

He was predeceased by brothers and sisters Lawerence “Larry” Lewis, Michael “Mike” Lewis, Elizabeth “Nell” Walsh, Cecila “Irene” Carrier and Madeline Peaty.

Tom was born on April 15, 1936, to wonderful parents, Michael and Bridget (Antle) Lewis, in Fleur de Lys, Newfoundland, Canada. Both parents also preceded him in death.

While he resided in Van Wert for all of his adult life, Tom’s heart was always close to his cherished Canadian home, and he eagerly took every opportunity to return to “The Rock” to connect with his deep roots. Tom was a quiet and contemplative man with strong, traditional values and a profound appreciation for the natural world around us. He was a kind and gentle man. There will be smiles as loved ones recall Tom’s master storytelling and his effortless way of winning over all hearts with his playful sense of humor. Tom had a great life, and on his behalf, we are thankful for all those who made it so.

As a lifelong Catholic, Tom believed the body itself is sacred, and that the physical substance of a person will rise on the last day when Christ returns. Tom’s family will celebrate his life with a private graveside service at Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert, to commend his body to the earth, to keep it until the day of resurrection.

Arrangements were handled by Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.