In loving memory of
Ben T. Lewis
December 13, 1922 - August 18, 2018
Ben Thanchum (Buddy) Lewis passed away on August 18, 2018, 8th of Elul 5778. He was born in Houston on December 13, 1922 to Joe and Lena Lewis of blessed memory, one of 4 brothers and 2 sisters.
Buddy attended Longfellow Elementary and Johnston Junior High before graduating from Sam Houston High School, lettering in basketball and volleyball. Buddy worked in the family kosher meat market, Joe Lewis and Sons, along with his brothers, Abe, Max and Meyer. He was drafted into the army in 1943 during World War II, serving three years in New Guinea, the Philippines, and Japan, most of the time in the same unit with his older brother Max.
Returning from the war, Buddy and his brothers Abe and Meyer re-entered the business that their sisters, Libbie and Sarah, operated while the boys were overseas. Buddy then moved into sales, first selling Green Stamps and then liquor wholesale for over thirty years with Quality Beverage Company.
Buddy was an avid sportsman, excelling in basketball and fast-pitch softball as a member of the AJ Society. He later played in Jewish Community Center softball and volleyball leagues, retiring around the age of 75. Buddy is one of five family members inducted into the Ronnie Arrow Jewish Sports Hall of Fame.
Buddy, along with his wife Ruth, of blessed memory, were staples of Beth Yeshurun's JB Greenfield Chapel. Buddy led services and was a Gabbai for many years, always greeting visitors and ensuring they got an Aliyah. He always made everyone feel welcome.
Buddy was a beloved father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle, cousin and friend to so many who loved him. He was a humble, generous man who treated everyone he met with kindness and warmth. His special way of joking endeared him to everyone and you always left his presence happier and glad of the time spent together.
Buddy is survived by his son, Michael and daughter in law Klara, daughter Lisa and son in law Kevin Klein; grandchildren Daniella Lewis, Joseph Lewis, Leah and Ari Lebowicz, Benjamin Klein and fiancé Samantha Selesny, Hannah Klein, Samuel Klein; great grandsons Joshua Jacob Lebowicz (JJ) and Caleb Marcus Lebowicz; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Special thanks and deep gratitude to Paula Zuniga (the Boss), Jo Anne Lalin (the Pretty One) and Tacho Zuniga (the Big Guy) for their loving care of our dear father.
Funeral services were held at Beth Yeshurun's Allen Parkway Cemetery at 1 PM on Monday, August 20, 2018, officiated by Rabbi Danny Horwitz.
Donations in memory of Buddy Lewis may be made to a charity of your choice.