Condolences to the Family of Robert Lewis

It is with sadness that we have learned of the death of Robert Lewis. He died in the hospital in Sudbury after a period of illness. Robert’s lay ministry in the diocese spanned nearly 25 years and included stints in French River, Massey, Sagamok, Webbwood and Garson. He was an infectiously enthusiastic evangelist, and was a man of great prayer. He retired from his last appointment in 2012 for reasons of health. Please keep Robert’s wife, Dorothy, and daughters Christine and Heather in your prayers at this difficult time.

LEWIS, Robert – In loving memory of Robert Lewis, who passed away peacefully and with grace at the age of 72, Tuesday, February 16th, 2016 at Health Sciences North surrounded by his loving family. Beloved husband of 43 years to Dorothy (Harrison) of Lively. Loving father of Christine (Richard Guthrie) and Heather. Adored “Gramps” of Danielle and Avery. Missed by his furry feline Amelie. Predeceased by his parents Joseph and Irene Lewis. Dear brother of David Lewis (Marie) of Sault Ste. Marie. Sadly missed by his relatives in England. Lovingly missed son-in-law of David (predeceased) and Glenora Harrison. Dear brother-in-law of Susan (Ross) Ward and David (Sherry) Harrison. Dear Uncle to Justin (Crystal) Ward and Jessica Harrison. Lovingly remembered by many aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends. Blessed friend to Matthew Carriere.

Robert was born on February 8th, 1944 in Manchester, England and moved to Sault Ste. Marie, ON as a young teenager. He worked in the Surveying Engineering Dept. for Inco at the various mines within the Sudbury Region.

Very worshipful brother Robert was a dedicated Member and Past Master of Friendship MasonicLodge 691. He also was a 32 degree Scottish Rite Mason and Past Thrice Puissant Master of the Sudbury Lodge of Perfection. He was a 25 year member of the Sudbury Shrine Club Rameses Temple. In addition, he was past patron of the Algoma Chapter 139 Eastern Star. He enjoyed attending the Masonic Java Guild lunches and being part of the Shriner Hillbilly Group.

Robert had a deeper calling to serve the Lord and attended Thorneloe College at Laurentian University, receiving his Degree in Theology. Over the years, Robert served the congregation of St. John the Divine Anglican Church as Sunday School Teacher, Warden, Lay Reader, Delegate to Synod, and Worship Leader. He also served the Diocese of Algoma as a Diocesan Lay Reader and Lay Minister whose career spanned over 25 years and included time in French River, Massey, Sagamok, Webbwood and Garson.

Robert was instrumental in promoting and assisting in leading the Alpha Course and was very much involved in the Cursillo Community in the Deanery of Sudbury-Manitoulin. He served in a variety of capacities in that part of the Lord’s vineyard, including special ministry in the Sudbury District Jail.

In addition to his ministry with the Anglican Church, he enjoyed attending All Nations Church and often participated and led a small group bible study.

Robert enjoyed many hobbies and interests which included astronomy, photography, model trains, antique cars, cheering for Manchester United and playing the guitar, to name a few. He had a passion for learning, was an avid reader and was always a fountain of knowledge, known to his grandchildren as “Smart Guy“.

He is being remembered as an enthusiastic evangelical and a man of deep faith and prayer. During any of his health trials he always remained positive and took it as an opportunity to share his faith and pray for others. His love for the Lord, his family and his ministry were his passions of life. He was an inspiration to many whom God placed in his path. His family was always so proud of him and will miss him dearly, but know God has a bigger plan for him (Jeremiah 29:11).

Resting at the
Jackson and Barnard Funeral Home
233 Larch Street, Sudbury
(Friends may call 2-5; 7-9:00 P.M. Friday with a Masonic service at 7:00 P.M. Friday under the auspices of Friendship Lodge #691 AF&AM)

Funeral Service in
All Nations Church, 414 St. Raphael Street, Sudbury
Saturday, February 20th, 2016 at 11:00 A.M.
Interment in the Waters Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations to All Nations Church Building Fund, St. John the Divine Anglican Church or the Shriners Hospitals for Children would be appreciated.