Michael A. Lewis, age 81, of Monmouth, Illinois passed away at Genesis Medical Center of Aledo, Illinois on Thursday February 27, 2025 at 2:26 p.m. Michael was born on February 17, 1944 in Everett, Washington and is the son of Cecil James and Winnefred Martha (Kennedy) Lewis. Michael attended schools in Seattle, Washington and Lincoln High School from where he graduated in 1962. He then attended Dakota State College and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education. Michael attended several classes towards his Master’s Degree. Michael first married Barbara Marie Johnson in 1967 in Madison, South Dakota. She preceded him in death on April 2, 2008. He later married Nancy K. Romine on June 1, 2011 in Monmouth, Illinois as she is surviving. Michael was first employed by the Keokuk Public School system as a Physical Education teacher. He then came to Monmouth in 1971 at the calling of Lou and Jim Ebersole when he began his career at Warren Achievement School serving as assistant director. Michael assumed many positions at Warren Achievement Center, culminating in him serving as President and Chief Executive Officer. Michael retired in 2013 after forty-two years. During his career, Michael served on numerous local board of directors, to include the Warren and Knox County United Way, Warren and Knox County Red Cross, and he was a member and Paul Harris fellow of the Monmouth Rotary Club. Michael was a faithful member of Immaculate Conception Church and was a fourth degree knight in the “Knights of Columbus”. He served two terms on the Warren County Board. He also rode in Ragbrai bicycle race several times. Michael was very active in sports and served as men’s tennis coach at Monmouth College and was an avid Notre Dame football fan. Surviving Michael is his wife Nancy K. Lewis of Monmouth. His daughter, Amy Lewis Synar of Tulsa, Oklahoma. His son, Tyler Lewis and Sarah of Elgin, Illinois and stepson, Todd Pyewell of Monmouth. Six Grandchildren, Julian Synar, Jacob Synar, John Michael Synar, Chloe Lewis, Barrett Lewis, Cooper Lewis. And one great granddaughter, River Grace Synar. Michael’s sister survives, Kathy Johnson and Rodger of Pasco, Washington and his brother, Richard Lewis and Jackie of Arlington, Washington. Michael is preceded in death by his parents and first wife, Barbara.
Turnbull Funeral Home in Monmouth is in charge of his care. A Memorial Mass is planed on Saturday, March 8 at 10:30 a.m. at the Immaculate Conception Church of Monmouth. A Rosary will be recited at 10:00 am prior to the mass at the church. Memorial funds are being established for Immaculate Conception Church or Warren Achievement of Monmouth. To leave a remembrance or for more information please visit www.turnbullfuneralhomes.com
