Dean S. Lewis, of Kalamazoo, died August 26 at the age of 79. He was a 1958 graduate of the University of Michigan Law School. Mr. Lewis practiced in the area of estate planning and probate, business and
real estate, with the law firm Lewis, Reed & Allen in Kalamazoo. He served as President of the State Bar of Michigan in 1980-81.
Lewis was known for his large physical stature, which was matched only by his big sense of humor. He became SBM president at age 46, and was known and loved for being the "every-day lawyer's lawyer." Lewis was a big believer in sacrificing something in return for what you've been given. He famously said, "Put something of yourself back into society . . . . Never forget to put some of what you take back into the profession . . . . Where, you may ask, 'do the time and energy come for this task?' There is no easy answer. They simply must be
found."
State Bar President Bruce A. Courtade expressed deep sadness at his passing. "The legal community has lost a larger-than-life leader who was passionate about the profession and about giving back," he said." Our thoughts and prayers go out
to the Lewis family."
Services will be held 2 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 3 at the First Presbyterian Church, 321 W. South St., Kalamazoo. Visitation will precede the services from 12:30–2 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church. Memorial donations can be made to Olivet College Alumni Scholarship Fund or First Presbyterian Church. For more information about Mr. Lewis' life and his funeral arrangements, visit www.lifestorynet.com.
