Richard S. Lewis

Richard S. Lewis, 62, of Kalamazoo, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, January 1, 2025 at his home. Rich was born July 1, 1962 in Roslyn, New York, the son of William and Edeltraut “Edy” (Schlienz) Lewis. Rich and his family moved to the Kalamazoo area in 1976 and he graduated from Portage Northern High School in 1980. On March 31, 1984, Rich was united in marriage to the former Cindy Newbre, who preceded him in death on September 15, 1995. Rich had a strong work ethic which was appreciated by his managers and coworkers at Summit Polymers. Chronic illness forced Rich to retire early from Summit Polymers in 2022, after 14 years of service. Rich had a great sense of humor. He also loved music and believed that music was the laughter of the soul. He also enjoyed astronomy and remained loyal to his New York sports teams, the New York Mets and New York Jets.

Rich is survived by two children, Dana (Hector) Gonzalez and Dustin (Meghan MacCarron) Lewis; 14 grandchildren, Sehvayda, Tevin, Serenity, Espyn, Brenden, Bryce, Antonio, Gavyn, Cindy, Silas, Farrah, Owen, Paige and Audrey; two great-grandchildren, Xayden and Brexten; two brothers, Robert (Jane) Lewis and Michael (Deb) Lewis; step sister, Robin (Pierre) Meilhac, many nieces and nephews; and his cat, Kahlua. Rich was also influential to many neighborhood children and friends of his own kids.

Family and friends are invited to gather from 1 – 3 PM on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at Adams – Redmond Funeral Home, 4100 S. Westnedge Ave., Kalamazoo, MI 49008, where a service will be held at 3 PM. Cremation will follow the services and he will be laid to rest with his wife, Cindy, at Riverside Cemetery, Kalamazoo. Memorial contributions in his memory may be directed to the family.

“There is nothing more uniquely human than the ability to laugh.”