Gwilym B. Lewis M.D.

Gwilym B. Lewis, M.D. Was born June 2, 1914 and died in Berkeley at age 95 on September 17, 2009. He was preceded in death on January 28, 2006 by his wife of 68 years, Ruth S. Lewis (Chandler). He is survived by daughters Martha Lewis (Dennis Fenwick), Caroline Burton (Rande), Frances Klein (Arthur), and Gwynne Movius (Lee), 4 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Throughout his medical career, Bill Lewis was deeply respected by his colleagues and patients for his wisdom, charm, and compassion. Throughout their lives as public spirited Berkeley citizens, Bill and Ruth, who lived in Berkeley from age 9 until her death at 91, supported civic and cultural activities and quietly advocated for social progress. Bill grew up in Redlands, California, where he and Ruth met as students at the University of Redlands. After graduation Bill attended Northwestern University Medical School in Chicago while Ruth, a social worker, supported the newlyweds. In 1941 Bill joined the US Navy. After completing pilot training during World War II, Bill served aboard the escort carrier USS Savo Island as the ship's flight surgeon. His ship survived enemy action in the South Pacific, including a kamikaze attack at the Battle of Leyte Gulf. Before leaving the Navy in 1948, he specialized in orthopedics. Bill loved his profession and for 40 years he and his partners repaired the bones and joints of Bay Area patients. After retirement from private practice, he continued to consult until he was nearly 90. Although Dr. Lewis will long be remembered for his professional accomplishments, Bill and Ruth will be remembered even longer by a devoted circle of family and friends as the highest example of lives well lived. Bill and Ruth never stopped learning, growing, and caring for others and for a world made better by their presence. A celebration of the lives of Bill and Ruth Lewis will take place at their Berkeley home on Saturday, October 24, 2009 at 2:00 pm. Those wishing to attend are requested to e-mail Martha Lewis at fenwick_lewis@msn.com or phone (916) 600-4973.