February 9, 1939 – February 1, 2025
Jerry Gordon Lewis, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and outdoorsman, passed away peacefully in his home on February 1, 2025, at the age of 85.
Jerry grew up in Wisconsin alongside his siblings, developing a deep love for nature that would shape his life’s path. After marrying his beloved wife Patricia in 1961, Jerry joined the Air Force. The Air Force took him to Amarillo, Texas for bootcamp; Long Island, New York; Rawalpindi, Pakistan; and Mountain Home, Idaho.
After his service, Jerry and Patricia found their home in the Bitterroot Valley. Together, they built a life centered around the great outdoors, working as outfitters on the Salmon River in Idaho for several years. Jerry eventually took a position as a trapper for the Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks, a role that perfectly suited his lifelong passion for the wilderness. They remained in Stevensville, Montana for forty-five years, filling their marriage with hard work, a sense of adventure, humor and some ups and downs. But, as Grandma says with a giggle, “Makin’ up is fun.”
Beyond his work, Jerry found joy in simple pleasures—gardening, camping, cooking over an open fire, and pranking his grandchildren. He was happiest under the open sky, surrounded by nature and the people he loved.
Jerry is survived by his wife, Patricia Lewis; his daughter, Shannon (Keith) O’Brien; his sister, Janie (John) Pettit; and his grandchildren, Chad and Carli O’Brien (Madison Bolton); and best friend Sherm Blom. He was preceded in death by his son, Shane, and siblings Carla (Smitty) Ufkin, Ted (Mayona) Lewis, Pat (Ted) Haugo, and Roger (Ruth) Lewis; and mother and father Granville and Fern Lewis, who undoubtedly welcomed him with open arms.
His adventurous spirit, warmth, and sense of humor will be dearly missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Special thanks to the caregivers and staff at The Auberge, and Partners in Home Care Hospice – you are the A-Team – along with the compassionate care of Just Cremations.
At Jerry’s request, there will be no service.