LEWIS, John William Royal
September 1931 - May 2020
It is with great sadness that the family of John William Royal Lewis announce the passing of “Pops” Jack on Saturday May 16, 2020 at the age of 88.
Jack will be lovingly remembered by his three children, Roy, Ken (Corrie), and Sandy. Pops will always be loved by his seven grandchildren, Jordan (Luke), Colton, Kyle (Alexis), Jamie (Brock), Cali (Clayton), Kirbie (Emre), Tyler (Brianna) and great-grandchildren Boston, Rylan, and Dysen. A long time resident of Stony Plain, Jack also leaves behind his sister Elizabeth, extended family and many close friends.
Jack was predeceased by his beloved wife Laverne and his dear sister Carol.
Jack was a true farmer through and through. He graduated from the Vermilion School of Agriculture in 1951 and from the University of Alberta with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in 1957. He farmed with his parents in the Winterburn community just west of Edmonton. He married the love of his life, Laverne in 1956 and they continued to farm and raise their family. Lewis Farms would later move to the Spruce Grove area and would eventually include a Sangudo division as well. Though the farming operation included grain and cattle, it was the seed potato division that captured his true passion. He was an active and proud member of the potato industry, involved locally, nationally, and internationally.
Even at the age of 88, you would still be hard-pressed not to see Jack at the farm on a daily basis, wearing some likely tattered clothes, that big signature grin of his, and always happy to chat. His passion for all things agriculture was undeniable. His love for friends and family was unconditional. Pops Jack leaves a legacy that will be remembered forever. Always striving for excellence, and encouraging his family to be the best version of themselves whether it was on, or off the farm. We are extremely fortunate to have had such a prolific man as such a big part of our lives, for as long as we did. He has filled our hearts with the fondest of memories that will forever be cherished. There is no question we would not be where we are today without Pops Jack. He was truly the heart and soul of the Lewis Farms operation. In our eyes the greatest man to ever live. A son, a husband, a father, a grandfather, a great grandfather, a brother, an uncle, and a friend to so very very many. From all of us, we love you Pops Jack. Forever.
A private family service will be held with a Celebration of Life to follow after harvest. Memorial donations in Jack’s memory may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
Written Tributes may be made to www.parklandfuneralservices.com
Parkland Funeral Services, Stony Plain, 780.963.2520.
