Lewis Alfred Marsten Jr.

1941 - 2025

Lewis Alfred Marsten Jr.
11/08/1941 - 12/02/2025
Lewis Alfred Marsten, Jr. was born on November 8, 1941, in San Francisco to Marion Woerner and Lewis A. Marsten, Sr.. He grew up in Sea Cliff, steps above Baker Beach, and attended Town School for Boys, The Thacher School, and the University of Arizona. He excelled at track in school, and raced hydroplanes during his summer months at Lake Tahoe, where his family summered at their Brushwood estate on the West Shore. His "need for speed" eventually led him to become the owner of many thoroughbred racehorses, resulting in numerous winner's circle appearances at Golden Gate Fields, Bay Meadows, and Santa Anita racetracks.
The ultimate raconteur, Lew knew how to tell a story. His humorous and perfectly-timed jokes, coupled with his expert wordsmanship and thunderous voice, captured the ears of his audiences. This talent resulted in famed Californian historian Kevin Starr proclaiming that Lew Marsten possessed "one of the greatest voices in California."
Lew was a man of many métiers. He was a financial advisor for more than 50 years in downtown San Francisco, a racehorse breeder, and a classically-trained pianist who could turn heads and get any party rockin' with his Muddy Waters and other Chicago blues influences. He was a proud Commodore of the Tahoe Yacht Club, a 70-year member of the Olympic Club, and spent countless summers at the Bohemian Grove with his best friend, the legendary Phil Harris. However, no job was more important to him than that of being a husband and father.
Lew is survived by his wife of 59 years, Ursula, brothers David (Cathy) and A.P. (Janet) Marsten, children Lewis Marsten III, Sheldon Marsten (Heather), beloved daughter, Marlene Marsten Peterson (Pete), Serge Morgan (predeceased), Karl Morgan, and Tony Morgan (Gabriela). He is also survived by his 10 grandchildren and 5 nieces and nephews.
"Big Lew" stories will be shared by family members and friends for generations to come.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the North Lake Tahoe Historical Society.