John David Lewis

John David Lewis graced the world with his presence on May 28th, 1966. A humble man, he would never brag about the immeasurable mark he left on the world, but we are his family, and we are paying for this obituary so we will brag all we want. 

Act 1. John came into this world with many natural talents. He was an artist and though he never claimed to be, he did make sure all the paintings and welded art he gifted were on full display. An athlete, he played collegiate football, flyfished, rode a prototype snowboard, and beat everyone up the trail on mountain bikes up until the summer before he passed. John also had a natural talent for forming friendships. He would claim to be more of a solo act, but then graciously invite dozens of friends onto the stage of his life where he left a profound impression on their hearts.

Act 2. Meeting and marrying Trish is undoubtedly John’s favorite act of his life. Like all the best romances, they met in the shoe department at Wolfs Sporting Goods. Their deep love and devotion never wavered in their 36 years of marriage. Together they fell in love with the outdoors and shared many hobbies like skiing, boating, hiking, mountain biking, and efficiently packing moving vans. In their beautiful life together John and Trish lived in 3 states, 6 cities, and at least 30 different houses—each they made into a home. 

Act 3. John loved his children, and it makes sense because we are awesome. Alix, Fischer, and Annabelle never once doubted the love of their father. Some beloved memories we have of our dad were sharing deep and meaningful conversations, performing in community theater together, floating on the lake, painting parties, hide and seek, ascending mountaintops, and enduring dad jokes. John had a gift for the art of dad humor—the thing we will miss the most.

Act 4. John was a diligent and hard worker, never seeking attention or personal recognition—that is unless, of course, he was on stage, in which case he would steal the show, the spotlight, and the hearts of all. Yes, John’s fourth act was gifting the community with his talents, kindness, and integrity. The legacy he hoped to leave was one of service. He always said he wanted to make the world a better place and never missed the opportunity to shovel a neighbor’s walk, to carry an extra load, or tie a hook for his grandchildren's fishing lines. 

John took his final bow on July 21, 2024, after a courageous battle with pulmonary fibrosis. He was surrounded by his family. And like every good romantic tragedy he died young and sexy at the age of 58. He is survived by his wife Trish, children Alix, Fischer, and Annabelle, grandchildren Liam and Charlotte, and puppies Piper and Daisy. 

We are sure he is fly fishing with someone really cool right now. Like his mom Carolyn, his grandpa Carl, his father-in-law Don, or John Prine.

In Celebration of John, please join us on Friday August 30th from 6-9PM at the Laughing Stock Theater Company space 491 E 10th St. Unit A7A Ketchum. Come in theatrical costumes!

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Hospice and Palliative Care of the Wood River Valley https://www.hpcwrv.org/donate