Mervyn F. Lewis
April 2, 1911 - November 27, 2009
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mervyn F. Lewis on November 27, 2009 at Comox, BC.
Merv was born in Margate, Great Britain on April 2, 1911, the third of four children, each of whom predeceased him. His family emigrated to Alberta, living in both Edmonton and Calgary. In 1929 Merv moved to Grande Prairie, Alberta, where he was in the insurance business as a principal until 1991. Following his retirement he and Evelyn summered in Kelowna and wintered in Indio, California.
Merv and his wife Evelyn Brewster married in 1939. their continuing happy union was blessed with four children, Robert (Doreen), Judith (Rod Fraser), Bill (Lynn) and Kathleen, eight grandchildren and six great grandchildren.
Merv flew in 407 Squadron during W.W. ll, at various stations in the British Isles, mustering out as Squadron Signals Officer with the rank of Flight Lieutenant. During the war he was twice mentioned by name in dispatches and was honoured by an introduction to His Majesty King George the VI.
Merv was the Past Master of Grande Prairie Lodge No. 105, A.F. & A.M. a long time Kinsman, Rotarian and Legionnaire. He was also an enthusiastic golfer, curler, hunter and fisherman.
Following Eveyln's passing Merv continued to enjoy living in Kelowna and spending his winters in the south.
In 1997 Merv married Pearl Larsen and relocated to Courtenay, B.C., where he spent 13 wonderful years until his passing. He was fully welcomed by Pearl's family, sons Don (Judy), Scott (Jennifer), Rob and daughter Karen (Frank Hunt) and four grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
Merv will be sadly missed by his wife Pearl, both families and many friends.
A Celebration of Merv's Life will be held at St. George's United Church in Courtenay on Friday December 4th at 2 PM.
In lieu of flowers a gift to a charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated.