Michael Christopher "Mike" Lewis

Michael Christopher "Mike" Lewis obituary, Zebulon, NC

Michael Christopher "Mike" Lewis

Michael Lewis Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Mar. 28, 2024.
We bid a sorrowful goodbye to Mike Lewis, who, at the age of 48, left us on March 21, 2024 after a courageous longtime battle with cancer. His departure has left a void in the hearts of all who knew him, especially in Charlottesville, VA, where he spent his final days surrounded by love, friends, and family.

Born on May 13, 1975, in Ashland, KY, Mike was a beacon of energy and creativity. He possessed an outgoing and kind-hearted spirit, characteristics that shone brightly even in the face of life's toughest challenges. Mike had an innate ability to comfort others, prioritizing the happiness and well-being of those around him above his own, a quality that endeared him to many.

His caring nature extended to his family in profound ways, especially in his unwavering care for his mother during her battle with ALS. This selflessness was a testament to his character.

He lived life with a rhythm in his step, embracing dance as one of his greatest joys. His love for poetry allowed him to express his deep thoughts and emotions, sharing his view of the world through beautifully crafted verses. Above all, his role as a father and doting grandfather was what he cherished most; his daughters and grandchildren were the light of his life.

Even as he faced his own battle with cancer, Mike's optimism never wavered. He declared his intent to defeat the disease many times, making plans that reflected his indomitable spirit. True to his adventurous heart, with the help of friends, he journeyed to Buffalo, NY, to obtain his passport, later flying to a Caribbean island to spend time with his friend, embracing life's moments with joy and defiance.

He is survived by his daughters Xenea Wells and Ivy Wells, his grandchildren Joshua Wells and Ava Wells, his brother Steve Lewis and wife Erin, his father Larry Lewis and wife Vicki, his aunt Susan Caudill and husband Greg, his aunt Lynn Fernandez and husband John, his uncle Jon Chellgren and wife Diane, his uncle Paul Chellgren and wife Debra, his aunt Beth Nelson, cousins Jason, Katie, David, Brian, Matthew, Sarah, Jane, Caren and their spouses and children. He was preceded in death by his mother, Karin Chellgren Lewis, uncle Rick Lewis, and uncle Mark Chellgren.

In his time with us, Mike touched the lives of many, leaving behind cherished memories with his loved ones. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

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March 31, 2024

Deborah Forchielli posted to the memorial.

March 31, 2024

Debbie planted trees.

March 29, 2024

Mary Bevacqui-Coles posted to the memorial.

3 Entries

Deborah Forchielli

March 31, 2024

I first met Mike in 1990 when I was a freshman and he was a sophomore. We were in the same drama class and I crossed the room to strike up a conversation. I'm not sure what made me do it, but he felt welcoming so maybe that's why. According to him, I said I liked his Mickey Mouse watch and asked if I could wear it? I remember it differently, that he just gave it to me hahaha. Either way, I think we both knew right away that this was going to be an instant, intense, and lifelong friendship. We were inseparable in high school. We spent our young adult years together, and when I moved to Richmond, he moved there too a bit later. We had wonderful memories of our college classes we took together, both as "older" students still in our early twenties. When I got married, we considered he should be my maid of honor, but he instead offered to usher my mom, who was very nervous about the whole ceremony. The minute she knew he was doing it, she was so relaxed . She's known and loved Mike since we were children. Mike loved her. When she passed away in 2014, I called him within minutes. He was so supportive at her funeral in so many ways, I will forever be grateful. He found out his mother had ALS a few years later, and immediately dropped everything to move to her house in Kentucky and be her full-time caregiver. I have great memories of visiting him during these times and playing board games and laughing with his mom. When his mother passed, he moved back to Virginia and quickly found out he had cancer. He endured some profound surgeries, he was a brave fighter. He fought cancer for almost 4 years. I am grateful for the time we had during these years, traveling to see concerts, and hanging out in our old stomping grounds. His spirit was intense and captivating, even in the end. The last time I spoke to him was on the phone was just before I raced home from Florida to see him. He made a joke we have had since high school, that has carried throughout the years, so that he could make me laugh. He didn't want me to be sad. I love him forever. I hear his voice all day, making jokes and narrating my life.

Group of 10 Memorial Trees

Debbie

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Mary Bevacqui-Coles

March 29, 2024

I met Mike in the early 90's when I moved to Virginia. We worked at a political surveying place together. And from there a lifelong friendship bloomed. I have such fond memories of Mike, we rescued an owl that was wounded in the middle of the road outside of his parents house, and felt like we had saved the world. The letters that would follow, once I moved home to New Jersey, he would draw pictures of the owl we saved, who we named but of course the name escapes me right now. We always kept in contact via letters or once the world wide Web opened up to all of us, through Facebook. Mike was full of light and love for everyone. To this day when I hear and arrested development song, we are back either in his room or the room adjacent with the pool table in it in his parents house dancing and singing , young and happy. His girls were his everything. He was a proud father and grandfather, and he would delight in telling me of all the things they did together. I had the pleasure to speak to him last year on the phone and it was like time had stood still. I will always treasure the memories I have with him. Rest in peace Mike. My love always, Mary

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Sign Michael Lewis's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

March 31, 2024

Deborah Forchielli posted to the memorial.

March 31, 2024

Debbie planted trees.

March 29, 2024

Mary Bevacqui-Coles posted to the memorial.