Howard Lester Lewis, 68, passed away on Friday, February 6, 2026, at Morrow County Hospital. Howard was born on July 9, 1957, to the late Ithel and Virginia (Irvin) Lewis in Crestline, Ohio.
He graduated from Galion High School in 1975 and later continued his education with some coursework at Marion Technical College. Known for his dedication and strong work ethic, he spent many years managing manufacturing plants, earning the respect of those he worked with. Later in life, he transitioned to truck driving, a career he took pride in until his well-earned retirement.
Howard married the love of his life, Kathy (Bailey) Lewis, on April 7, 1979. Together, they shared many cherished years filled with deep love, laughter, and countless joyful memories that will be forever treasured.
Family was the foundation of Howard’s life, and everything he did was rooted in his deep love for those closest to him. He found his greatest happiness in time spent with his girls and his grandchildren, creating memories through simple but meaningful traditions like Wednesday night card games, fishing trips, and friendly Nintendo competitions that often ended in laughter. He loved taking his children and grandchildren on adventures, whether close to home or farther away, always making each moment special and full of love.
A devoted and deeply loving husband and father, Howard was known for his fairness, patience, and quiet strength. He was a man who believed in doing what was right and in showing up for others, always ready to lend a helping hand. To many, he was more than a friend; he was a guiding presence and a father figure, offering wisdom, support, and unconditional care.
Howard had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and the simple joys it brought him. He loved arrowhead hunting, sitting by the campfire, traveling to the beach, and gazing at the night sky, where his love for astronomy sparked curiosity and wonder. Evenings often found him enjoying old Western movies or spending time outside with family, sharing stories and laughter.
Known affectionately as the family grill master, Howard took great pride in hosting cookouts, bringing everyone together over good food and even better company. He rarely went anywhere without his pocketknife, ChapStick, and clippers close at hand-small details that will forever remind his loved ones of him. A lifelong Ohio State football fan, he especially treasured holding season tickets with his daughter Fawn, making memories that will be cherished for generations. Howard’s legacy is one of love, generosity, and a life well lived, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Left to cherish Howard’s memory are his beloved wife, Kathy Lewis; his children, Bambi (Jason) Downard of Galion, Fawn (Justin) Mollenkopf of Mt. Gilead, and Ruth Bowersox, affectionately known as “his little black-eyed pea,” of Mt. Gilead; his grandchildren, Dakota (Riley) Downard, Bryce (Emily) Downard, Gavyn Downard, Melody Bowersox, and Eli Bowersox; his great-grandchild, Travis Downard; his siblings, James “Jim” (Jeannie) Lewis of Arizona, Wayne (Jean) Lewis of Wyoming, Phyllis (Bob) Bessinger of Fortson, Georgia, Ron Lewis of Mt. Gilead, Barbara Lewis of Marion, Donna (Fred) Claus of Galion, and David (Brenda) Lewis of Apple Creek; as well as numerous cherished nieces and nephews.
Along with his parents, Howard was preceded in death by his great-grandson, Gunner Downard.
Friends and family are invited to gather to celebrate and remember the life of Howard on Saturday, February 14, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Gompf Funeral Service-Galion Chapel, 303 Portland Way North, Galion.
Those wishing to share a memory of Howard or send condolences to the Lewis family may do so by visiting www.masfh.com.
The Gompf Funeral Service – Galion Chapel, 303 Portland Way N., is honored to serve the family of Howard Lester Lewis.
Funeral Home: Gompf Funeral Service – Galion Chapel
Website: www.masfh.com