Richard Lewis

Richard Lewis, 70

Richard Lewis passed away on Tuesday night, Dec. 16th, 2008after a courageous battle with cancer. He died peacefully in his bed with his family surrounding him. He was born in 1938 in Rockford, the son of Marshall and Ada Lewis. He enjoyed sports and finding ways to express his artistic talents. While attending West High School he met his wife Diane and they were married in 1959. Dick pursued a career in art and graphic design initially in California. When Dick and Diane returned to Rockford, he went into business for himselfstarting a successful advertising agency. As his ad agency grew, he continued to paint and his artwork ranged from abstract to classic. He was one of the first in Northern Illinois to use computers in graphic design. Aside from his family, his passions were trains, aviation and golf. His love of flying and history led him to write a comprehensive book about the heritage of Rockford Airport. His aviation paintings continue to grace the walls of the airport. He was a model train enthusiast and even in his final years continued to attend hobby shows. The years following his cancer diagnosis were filled with everything that mattered most to Dick.He took his family on tripspublished his book and was in attendance when his beloved Cubs tossed a no hitter in Milwaukee 3 months ago. He was always a kid at heart and was the best friend to his 3 sonsRick, Tom and Dan. He adored his grand daughters Amanda and Kylie and they were so important in helping him enjoy his final days. He was always amazed at how lucky he was to have Diane at his side for nearly 50 years. But anyone who was touched by the talents and generosity of Richard Lewis in his 70 years feels enriched as well. Survived by wife, sons, Rick, Tom, Dan and sister, Roberta Graham of Tacoma WA, and granddaughters, Amanda and Kylie. He also leaves behind sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law who thought of him as their brother throughout their fifty some years together and many nephews and nieces. Special thanks to his wonderful physician, Dr. Bryan McDonald who coordinated all his care with his specialty doctors and the VNA Hospice caregivers. Memorial Service Saturday, Dec. 20 at 10:00 a.m. at Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 4055 N. Rockton Ave. The family will welcome visitors beginning at 9:30. In lieu of flowers, the family would like donations to be made to the American Cancer Society, 4312 E. State St. Rockford, IL 61108 or the VNA Hospice, 4223 E. State St. Rockford, IL 61108. Express online condolences at: www.fitzgeraldfh.com