Steven Earl Lewis

Steven Earl Lewis was born January 5, 1947, in Quincy, Illinois. He was one of six children born to Adelbert and Doris (Buskirk) Lewis. In his early years, the family lived in a boxcar on a train while his dad was a maintenance worker for the railroad. Steven and his siblings slept in hammock’s while on the railcar because of the rocking motion of the train. Later in life Steven always liked rocking chairs, he thought this was because of the rocking motion from his childhood. Steven was blessed with two daughters, Julie and Brenda, who he loved unconditionally. Julie and Brenda honored him with the title of grandpa, and then great grandpa. Steven cherished every minute and memory he spent with his family. Steven spent twenty-two years in the United States Navy working air wing. He was first stationed in Texas and then spent time at Whidbey Island, Washington and Pax River, Maryland. Many pictures were taken and memories made while in the service. One of his favorite areas was the Pacific Northwest. Steven was last stationed at Glenview Naval Air Station where he met the love of his life, Mary Streich, and retired from the service. Steven and Mary united in marriage on March 21, 1987, and spent thirty-seven years making memories together. Steven always had a goal for Mary and him to own property. His dream came true when they purchased property in Salem, Missouri, he was very proud of what they had achieved. Steven retired from Lake County Forest Preserve, and they made the move to their forever home. Steven always put his family first and was a wonderful father, husband and provider. Steven had a passion for hunting; however, it was never for sport but to provide for his family. He received his first gun at the age of thirteen from his father who also provided him with two bullets. Steven knew he was to come home with two small animals from the days hunt or return with the two bullets. Steven enjoyed the outdoors and could name most trees and birds that he came across, he was a well-trained arborist and forester. He loved horses, his tractor, and was an avid gardener. Steven had a special bond with his furry companion, Cooper, who could always be found at his side. Steven entered eternal rest on November 1, 2024, at the age of seventy-seven years. He is survived by his loving wife: Mary Lewis of Salem, MO; daughters: Julie Neugent and husband James and Brenda Woode and husband Brian; siblings: Lowell Lewis and wife Carol, David Lewis and wife Patti, and Michael Lewis and wife Marilyn; grandchildren: Brittany, Conner, Kylee, Rachel and Steven; nine great-grandchildren, and one on the way; special friends: Jacob Anderson, Eric Schafer and Zach Schafer; as well as other relatives and dear friends. Preceding him in death were his parents: Doris and Delbert Yeakey, and Adelbert Lewis; brother: Gene Lewis; and his sister: Janet Lewis. Steven will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and a caring grandfather. Celebration of Life for Steven Earl Lewis was held Saturday, November 23, 2024, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Pastor Chris Hendrix officiating. Burial in the Fort Sheridan National Cemetery, Lake Forest, Illinois, will be held at a later date. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made in memory of Steven Lewis to the Wounded Warrior Project and left with Wilson Mortuary, or by planting a tree in his honor. Memorial Envelopes will be available. Online Condolences may be left at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Steven Earl Lewis

January 5, 1947 - November 1, 2024