Lewis Kirkpatrick II, 76, of Warren, PA., died peacefully at his home, Tuesday morning, November 12, 2024, after suffering an apparent heart attack. Lewis was born July 29, 1948, in Harrisburg, PA. He was the son of Lawrence Lewis and Zona Bernette Sherman Kirkpatrick. He has resided in Warren since 1968. He was a graduate of Western Beaver High School in Industry, PA., and earned a bachelor’s of science degree in Education from Edinboro University and a master’s degree from Penn State University. He was employed with the Warren County School District for 35 years and taught and coached at Eisenhower High School and retired from Warren Area High School. While at Eisenhower High School, Lewis coached the golf team, leading them to an undefeated record, and also coached the track team. During the summer, he taught driver’s education, where he had a unique approach: on the very first day, he had students get behind the wheel and drive. They would often make a stop at “Bob’s Trading Post” for ice cream before heading back to school. Many of his students affectionately called him “Mr. K,” a nickname he always answered to with a smile.
Lewis and Anne, built a beautiful home overlooking Warren where they enjoyed many wonderful years together. They loved to travel, embarking on memorable cruises to the Bahamas, Jamaica, Belize, Alaska, and most recently, Hawaii. Lewis was a member of St. Joseph R.C. Church and the Warren Knights of Columbus Council 964, where he achieved 4th degree status and was a former member of their bowling league. He was known for his unique skull ball, a conversation starter that always sparked interest and laughter. Additionally, Lewis was a member of the Warren Elks Lodge, Sheffield Rod & Gun Club, Lakewood Rod & Gun Club, and a former member of the Warren Moose Lodge 109.
Lewis took great pride in his family, especially his daughter Lewann, who followed in his footsteps as a teacher, and his three sons, Brian, Matthew, and Jonathan. He was equally proud of his sons and grandson, Brody, each of whom earned the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America. An avid fisherman and hunter, Lewis cherished the times spent outdoors with his sons and grandsons. Hunting trips will never be the same without him, as he loved these moments in the field, often followed by trips to 4-Sons for hot dogs, Greek fries, and heartfelt conversations. The family finds comfort in the thought that Lewis is now in heaven, sharing stories with his dear friend Jerry about their next great hunting adventure. Family was always at the heart of Lewis’s life, especially his grandchildren. He and his wife, Anne, were devoted supporters, attending their grandchildren’s activities, whether it was swimming, soccer, band, tennis, or golf. Lewis lived a full and meaningful life, and those of us fortunate enough to have known him will forever carry the weight of his absence. Yet, his memory will live on in our hearts, a legacy that continues to inspire and guide us.
While attending college, Lew met Anne, the love of his life and his wife of 52 years. They both worked at Warren General Hospital and Warren State Hospital, where they built their careers together. Lew and Anne were married on April 15, 1972 — a date he never forgot, as it also happened to be Tax Day. Lew is survived by his wife, Anne Anderson Kirkpatrick; their four children: Brian L. Kirkpatrick and wife Joan of Mars, PA; Lewann M. Alexander and husband Scott; Matthew L. Kirkpatrick and wife Kimberly; and Jonathan E. Kirkpatrick, all of Warren, PA. He is also survived by five grandchildren: Brennan L. Kirkpatrick, Brody L. Alexander, Andrew T. Kirkpatrick, Trent L. Alexander, and Maura E. Kirkpatrick.
> He leaves behind five siblings: Edward Kirkpatrick and wife Kathy of Green Castle, IN; Linn Ditzler and husband Ty; Richard Kirkpatrick, all of Hobe Sound, FL; Juanita Dunham and husband David of Yorba Linda, CA; and Laurie Routledge and husband Steve of Murrieta, CA. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Edward Anderson of Cortland, OH, and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Lew was preceded in death by his sister, Zona Schlutt and her husband Glenn; his nephew, Kirkland Schlutt; his sister-in-law, Sandra Anderson; and his niece, Kristen Anderson Hewko.
Family and friends will be received on Monday, November 18, 2024, at the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc., 304 East Street, Warren, PA., from 4 to 7 P.M. A Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted Tuesday, November 19,2024, at 10:00 A.M. at St. Joseph R.C. Church, 600 Pennsylvania Avenue West, Warren, PA., with Fr. Richard C. Tomasone, Pastor, officiating. Entombment will be in St. Joseph R.C. Cemetery, Warren, PA. Those wishing to place memorials may do so through Eisenhower Ike Pride, c/o Eisenhower High School, 3700 Route 957, Russell, PA, 16345. E-mail condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com
“Farewell my friends, until we meet again.”
I am sorry your loss.
My prayers going out to you all.
To have known and loved Lew for over 50 years has been such a blessing. He was a great husband, loving father, and devoted grandfather. His smile and laugh were contagious, and his heart was as big as the sea.
There were so many times over the years when we called Lew for help. He would always show up, whether it was putting in a new kitchen on McKinley (which he was totally in charge of) or putting in a new door leading to the garage on Meadow Ln. And he’d have a “Lew lecture” for us of where we’d gone wrong. 🙂 And being up on the hill, sitting on the deck, having a cup of coffee, just gabbing, were some of our most peaceful times.
There are so many memories of seeing him cradle one of his newborns, then a year later he’d be rough-housing with them, followed by a few more years with him putting them to work 🙂 He always had a project going. He taught you so much. Brian, Lewann, Matt, Jon, Brennan, Brody, Andrew, Trent, and Maura, you all were his joy. And, our dear Anne, Lew truly loved you with his whole heart.
Lew was a friend for the ages, and we will miss him dearly.
With love, hugs, and prayers, Tom and Patti