Submit a PhotoThe music has gone silent for Melvyn James Douglas Lewis, beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, who passed away on January 12, 2024 at the age of 82.
Born in Rugby, England on September 16, 1941, Melvyn’s passion for music began at a young age. A talented guitarist, songwriter, singer, and keyboard player, he filled his days with beautiful melodies. He loved sharing his music with family, often inviting them to join him in song. After immigrating to America in the 1970s with his wife and daughters, Melvyn proudly became a U.S. citizen in 1981.
Melvyn lived life to the fullest through his many interests and hobbies. He held a private pilot’s license and relished the freedom of flying his Cessna on trips across the country. He spent time as a volunteer for Sheriff’s Search & Rescue, combining his love for flying with a commitment to community service. As an outdoor enthusiast, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and sailing voyages with family and friends.
Well-traveled and adventurous, Melvyn lived in England, Canada, and the U.S. over his long life. He was a successful businessman who worked hard to provide for his loved ones.
Melvyn took comfort in simple pleasures that reminded him of his English roots – relaxing with a cup of tea, Cornish pasties, sausage rolls, and other flavors from home. A devoted dog lover, Melvyn cared for many loyal canine companions over the years including Maggie, Jezebel, Toby, and Pepper, sipping a cold beer or nice glass of wine, and making memories on motorhome trips.
He leaves behind his daughters, Suzanne Ernesti, Zoe Lewis, and Christene Lewis; grandchildren, Andrew Kennedy, Jennifer Pyron (deceased), Zachary Wesley, Tyler Kennedy, and Cortney Pyron; great-grandson Brenden Straughn, and his many dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.
Donations in Melvyn’s name may be made to a local dog rescue, a cause close to his heart. Though he will be sorely missed, his loved ones find solace in the memories of his full and vibrant life, and the thought that he is now flying free and high in the open skies.
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So sorry for your loss. Good memories of your Dad like the time he took me and Wendy for a flight in his plane(not Wendy’s favorite thing😁) and the time you guys had the shop in England . He was a good bloke will be sadly missed
We are so sorry for your loss. If there is anything we can do to help you through this chapter of your life, please let us know. Your dad sounded like a very adventurous guy which explains a lot about you Susie.
I will miss you my friend, my brother, the best uncle a boy could ever hope to have. Rest in the grace of this universe.
My deepest sympathies to you Susie and Kiki.
Sending love and prayers to all our family over in the u.s from all uncle Mel’s relatives in the u.k.xx
Mel, I did not get a chance to really know you as much as I wish I could have. But every time I saw you you were always so nice to me. You always had kind words to say. Thank you for being you and for loving those I love so much. I wish we would have had more time together but that’s always the case I guess. I hope you have found peace and that you continue to watch over those still here. I’m sure they have and will continue to forever make you so proud. Stand by them in times of struggle and when they join you give them all the hugs and kisses you missed out on. Fly high Mel you will surely be missed.
You were blessed with such a talented and giving father.
I have great memories of Mel! He was a good friend who always encouraged me in so many ways! We wrote songs together, played music and had wonderful laughs! Mel always was kind and generous in so many ways and he always had nice things to say about his family. He wanted the best for everyone! I’ll miss him greatly! We talked many times about the love of God, provided by His son Jesus, and Mel told me faith was so important! My condolences to the family.
I am so sorry to hear about the death of your dad Susie & Christene. I have so many great memories of your dad, namely his uncanny ability to morph into Elvis Presley once the guitar came out! I wish you and your family peace and I am sure wherever he is, he is entertaining everyone! Sending much love ❤️
Jim, my dad talked about you so much as well. Know that you were truly one of his greatest friends.
Thank you. I am honored to have known Mel and to be one of his friends. I miss him terribly.