Robert “Bob” Lewis
Robert “Bob” Murrel Lewis 89 years old, of Hettinger, ND, passed away peacefully Monday, December 13, 2021, in Minot, ND.
Service of Remembrance for Bob was Friday, December 17, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. MT at the United Methodist Church in Hettinger, ND. Rev. Duane Coates will officiate and burial followed at the Hettinger Cemetery. Visitation was from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 16, followed by a Prayer service at 7:00 p.m. all at the United Methodist Church.
Bob was born April 29, 1932, at Mrs. Clark’s house in Hettinger, ND. Bob’s parents were Chester Murrel and Agnes Olson Lewis. The family moved to the T. E. Hayes’ place in 1938.
Bob was a long-time area farmer/rancher from Ellingson, SD, who said he always lived within 5 miles of the home place until moving into Hettinger in 2000. He was a child of the Depression Era, growing up with an older sister Marilyn Lewis Mundahl and younger sister Patti Lewis Ohnemus. He attended the Ellingson country school, stayed in town during the week to attend Hettinger High School, and graduated in 1950. He was a fast-running football player who played both offense and defense. He loved horses and one of his favorites was Bird--a fast, spirited horse that only he could ride and usually as bareback.
Bob and Helen Marie Sather were united in marriage at Miles City, MT, on June 2, 1952. They celebrated 60 years of marriage. Helen passed away in January 2013. They had 3 children—Dr. Mark Lewis, a veterinarian in Lisbon, ND; Constance Lewis Priest, teacher, deceased in January 2005; and James, audio/video technician in Bismarck, ND.
Besides working the land and operating the ranch, Bob was a carpenter and used his skills to build and upgrade houses, churches, garages, and many cabinets. In later years, while driving around the area, he could name every location and remember the work done there. He recalled falling off the ladder and landing in a basement. The ladder is still useable, but it has a dent!
Bob was an award-winning vocalist in high school, so he was naturally one of the original Borderline Singers and anchored that bass section with his deep voice way down in the bottom range of the musical scale. He sang many solos for weddings and funerals.
Bob served on the church administration board, township and school boards and volunteered with numerous other community groups. He was instrumental in expanding the West River medical community, hospital, and Foundation Board, by serving for over 20 years as member and chairman. He supported the Adams County Fair and 4‑H. He loved to learn about new places; and he and Helen traveled to Europe and many states, wintering for 7 years in Winterhaven, CA. But his home, his heart, was the land of the Dakotas.
Bob was a true servant for his community and fellow man. He and Helen were members of Bethany United Methodist Church until its closing, and then attended the Hettinger United Methodist Church. Even as life changed for Bob, he continued to pray for his family, friends, and expressed genuine concern for those who were ill or suffering. He was known for his common sense, work ethic, and commitment, and remained humble his entire life.
“Well done good and faithful servant.”
Bob is survived by Mark (Tammy Nelson), Lisbon, ND; James (Melissa) Lewis, Bismarck, ND; Patti Ohnemus, Spearfish, SD; and grandchildren and their families—Daniel (Stefanie) Lewis; Matthew (Amber) and Karley; Kristen (Kyle) Rhone; Samantha Lewis and River; Keaton Lewis; Samuel (Nichole) Abdallah and Colton, Anthony, Evangelina, Jax, and Nash; Bobbi Jo (Todd) Cody; Staci (Chris) Schmitz and Carter and Elyanna; and Nyhus and Laura Schaffer and Hennasy, Briggs, and Brooks. A note to genealogists, all grands and great grands are listed as his family. He loved you all.
He was predeceased by his parents, Murrel and Agnes: wife Helen, daughter Connie; sister and brother-in-law, Marilyn and Robert Mundahl; brother-in-law, Bill Ohnemus; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Earl and Liv Laufer, Birger and Barbara Sather, Darrell and Joan Bowman; nephews Kris Braaten and Stanley Laufer; beloved grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins; and so many special friends and other family members.
Memorials may be given to the West River Health Services Foundation or the donor’s choice.
Condolences to the Lewis family can be sent through our website at www.evansonjensenfuneralhome.com
