Frank Lewis

On Tuesday, February 10, 2015, Frank Bertram Lewis peacefully passed away at his residence in Aptos surrounded by his family. He was 83.

Frank was born November 23, 1931 in Watsonville, California to his proud parents Frank Lewis and Gladys Belt.

For 53 years, Frank served as a firefighter and peace officer for the California Department of Forestry. He retired as a Division Chief from the San Mateo-Santa Cruz Unit of CDF in 2000. He appeared as Smokey the Bear at numerous functions for fire prevention education. Family and friends knew him as "Smokey." He was known for being compassionate, generous and always helping others. He served faithfully as a Bishop in the Aptos Ward of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Frank volunteered as a leader for the Boy Scouts of America for over 35 years.

He has now reunited with his beloved wife of 49 years, Mary Ann Day Lewis, who preceded him in death in 2010. He is survived by his sons, Stephen Lewis of Meridian, Idaho and Mark Lewis of La Selva Beach. He is also lovingly remembered by his sister Maryann Nichol of Yuba City; his brother Ken Lewis of Pollock Pines, California; grandchildren Emily, Evan, and Madelyn Lewis; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, February 18, 2015 at 10:00 AM at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 255 Holm Road in Watsonville, with private burial to follow at Day Valley Cemetery.