Sammy “Sam” Joe Lewis, 62, of Vermilion, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday morning, December 26, 2024, after a lengthy illness.
Born on August 3, 1962, in Manchester, KY, Sam moved to the Vermilion area at the age of three, where he remained a cherished member of the community for 59 years.
Graduating from Firelands High School and Lorain County Joint Vocational School in 1980. Sam spent 42 years to the auto repair working locally for Kyle Motors and Sharpnack Chevrolet, moving on to Akin and Akin in North Ridgeville, and retiring for Metro Toyota DCR in Brook Park.
A man of service and camaraderie, Sam was a proud member of Ely Masonic Lodge #424 and a dedicated volunteer with the Florence Township Fire Department. He had a passion for working on cars alongside his father, drag racing in Norwalk, mudding, hunting, fishing, and spending time with friends at the Sportsman Outpost in Vermilion.
Sam leaves behind his devoted wife of 37 years, Tracy (nee LaMarche) Lewis; his beloved sons, Mason and David Lewis, both of Vermilion; his brother, Dan (Tracy) Lewis of Berlin Heights; sister-in-law, Suzette LaMarche of Vermilion; beloved German Sheppard, Nala; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Milton Jr. and Guerilla (nee Whitehead) Lewis, and his in-laws, George and Elizabeth LaMarche.
Family and friends are invited to gather on Monday, Dec. 30, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Riddle Funeral Home, 5345 South Street, Vermilion, Ohio where there will be a Masonic Service at 6:30 p.m. Funeral services will be Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024 at 12:30 p.m. at the funeral home. The Reverend David Johnson will officiate. Interment will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Vermilion.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Riddle Funeral Home to assist with expenses.
Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.riddlefuneralhome.com.
