He lived in Clovis for the past 45 years. He was raised in various towns in New Mexico and Arizona. After turning 18, he enlisted into the Navy and served for 3 years, in the Pacific, during WW II. After the Navy, he tried construction, logging and prospecting in Nevada, before starting his career with the California Dept. of Forestry (Cal Fire). He then worked his way up to Equipment Manager at the Region IV Headquarters in Fresno. After working for CDF for 30 years, he retired in 1991. In younger years, he was an avid fisherman and hunter. He loved camping and hiking in the mountains. Lew is a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion and Peoples Church Wood Workers.
He is survived by his “wife of his dreams” of 52 years, JoAnn, his son, Lewis Jr. and his wife Jocelyn and three grandchildren, Felicia Marie, Lucas Thomas and Mazzy Jean.
Lew was preceded in death by his father, mother, three sisters and two brothers.
A Graveside service will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 28, 2018 at the Sanger Cemetery located at 568 South Rainbow, Sanger, CA and the family welcomes all that would like to attend.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.boicefuneralhome.com for the Smith family.
