Keith Lewis

Keith Douglas Lewis

Keith Douglas Lewis passed at home at the age of 79 on July 21, 2017. Beloved husband of Betty (Meikle) Lewis, dear father of Stephen (Kim Carter) and dear grandfather of Emma and Iaon. Predeceased by son Gary, parents and sisters Eleanor Shields and Ruth Coutts.

Archdeacon James Bardsley officiated the memorial service at St Mary’s Anglican Church and the Interment service at Evergreen Memorial Gardens Friday, July 28, 2017. Oddfellow and Rebekah Lodges were assembled and PNG Terry Simpson and NG Bernie Brecknell led the Commendation; members placed evergreens and formed an honor recession. Keith felt it a privilege to serve the Order as Grand Master of Manitoba. The service included the eulogy written by Stephen, while granddaughter Emma read the poem, You Made a Difference. Hymns included Abide with Me, Amazing Grace, and I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say.

After hearing family stories, it was evident Keith came by his wit and playful sense of humour honestly. He was a man who was always on the move with business ventures, personal activities and volunteering. As a life-long learner, he was very busy with handy-man building projects and cooking, Other activities included barbershop quartet singing, Legion membership, Parochial Lay Reader officiating, Judo (Bill’s Judo Club), dairy farming, harness racing and horse training, Showcase Art & Framing, and Archery Club practices,

Keith met the love of his life, Betty, at the old Oddfellows Dance Hall while stationed at RCAF Macdonald. The couple bonded as best friends due to his charm and quick wit, skillful dancing, musical talents and kind nature. He was stationed to Ottawa when they married. Romantically, flower bouquets often came home with the groceries; in addition, family and friends were most important to Keith and his quick jokes and smiles always greeted visitors. He loved Emma’s musical talents and he was a proud sports fan of Iaon. Keith thought his two sons, born in Portage, were amazing and he was the loudest cheerleader at their sport events.

Annie Wilson, Keith’s mother, was proud of her son, who in his teenage years, drove trucks for the family business to support them during difficult times. He was generous (almost to a fault) and he loved fun.

Throughout his life, Keith confronted life’s difficulties with faith, humour, music and a drive to make a difference. Keith’s family appreciates the kindness shown during and after Keith’s illness. He battled many ailments over the years, but he was a survivor who came out fighting each time.

We wish to express our gratitude to 911 ERS, to ambulance attendants, to Karen Letts, Funeral Director of McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel and to Archdeacon James Bardsley for his counsel.

A special thank-you to Dr. K. Hunter and medical staff, to Mike Luykn for driving to many appointments in Winnipeg, to Jim and Brenda Meikle and family for support, to Joe Wermie and Barb Engel for their urgent help and to Sheila Riendeau for her support.. St. Mary’s la Prairie is also appreciated for providing comforting music and a lovely lunch following the service.

If friends so wish, donations in memory of Keith may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation Unit 3 - 2430 Victoria Avenue, Brandon, MB, R7B 0M5 or to the Community Foundation of Portage and District Inc. 11-2nd Street NE, Portage la Prairie, MB, R1N 0R8 or to a charity of your choice.

A tree will be planted and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com 204-857-4021.