LAVALE [mdash] Joseph Lewis Sr., 94, of LaVale, passed away on Jan. 31, 2025.

Born July 11, 1930, in Eckhart Mines, he was the son of the late John Willison Lewis and Annie McKay (White) Lewis. He was preceded in death by siblings, Jack Lewis, Helen Phillips, MaryLou Tharp, Tom Lewis, Mae Lewis, Allen Lewis, Bob Lewis and Henry Lewis; as well as son-in-law, Jim Lensbouer.

In 1948, Joe joined the Army. Once stationed at Staten Island, N.Y., he met his wife, the late Margaret Fekety Lewis. They were married for 68 years before her death in 2020.

During his military service, Joe traveled the country and the world assisting with the transport of troops back from Germany after WWII. When the Korean War began, he served on the frontlines and was injured. He was awarded the Purple Heart. After his military duty ended in 1955, he settled his family in New York where they lived until moving to Maryland many years later.

Joe was a mechanic and truck driver for most of his working days. He could fix any engine and was the go-to person for driving directions. In his later years, Joe enjoyed fishing and gardening.

Joe is survived by his nine children ; sons, Michael Lewis and wife, Mary; Albert Lewis; Joe Lewis Jr.; and David Lewis and wife, Jerri; daughters, Elizabeth (Suzy) Gerhard and husband, Bobby; Debbie Wright and husband, Tom; Linda Guthrie and husband, Larry; Margie Lensbouer; and Lillian Lewis and husband, Bill Chesno. Joe is also survived by 10 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; brothers, Jerry Lewis; and Raymond Lewis and wife, Carolyn; and sister, Geraldine Felker.

A family service will be held at a later date.

Sowers Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements