Robert H. Lewis, 91

Robert Harris “Bob” Lewis, of Neillsville and formerly of Antigo, died Tuesday November 24, 2015 at Neillsville Care and Rehab Center under the care of St. Croix Hospice. He was 91 years old.

Bob was born February 17, 1924 to the late Stephen Harris and Marion (Crum) Lewis in Rhinelander, WI. Marion passed away during Bob’s childhood, and he was raised by his father and stepmother, Lilah Lewis.

On August 26, 1947 he was united in marriage to Vivian Tillman in Rhinelander. She preceded him in death on November 29, 2000.

Bob was a graduate of Rhinelander High School’s class of 1942. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from UW Oshkosh.

He served in the US Army during World War II in the 342nd Infantry Division on the heavy mortar crew. He served in Europe and the Phillipines and was honorably discharged on February 23, 1946.

Bob taught science at the Antigo Junior High School for many years, retiring in 1986.

He was a member of Faith United Church of Christ. Bob was instrumental in operating the church’s food pantry for over 20 years.

He also served on the American Cancer Society Board.

Survivors include a daughter Cindy (John) Rosch of Madison, a son Dick (Carolyn) Lewis of Neillsville, 8 grandchildren, John (Allison) Rosch, Jr. of Sauk City, Shane (Cindy) Rosch of Madison, Andy Rosch of Madison, Bret Benson of La Crosse, Cody Benson of La Crosse, Laura (Joe) Kunze of Denver, CO, Sela Lewis of Neillsville, Alexander Lee of Waupun, 8 great grandchildren, a brother Steven (Yukiko) Lewis of Washington, and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife and parents, Bob was preceded in death by a brother Jack.

Funeral services will be held on Monday at 11:00 AM at Faith United Church of Christ. Reverend Wes Jedras will officiate. Visitation will be from 9:30 AM until the service at the church. Military honors will follow the service at the church.

Interment will be in Elmwood Cemetery.

Memorials in Bob’s name may be directed to Antigo Area Food Pantry at 2120 Progress Blvd., Antigo, WI 54409.

Bob’s family extends a special thank you to Neillsville Care and Rehab Center for their care.