On November 23, 2024, William Christopher Lewis peacefully passed away at Brookdale East Senior Living, with his beloved daughter by his side. Born on May 17, 1930, in Jumbo, Oklahoma, to William and Mary (Seals) Lewis, William's life was a tapestry of hard work, love, and devotion to family and community.

On July 7, 1951, in De Queen, Arkansas, William married Sarah Poe, the love of his life and his steadfast partner for over seven decades. Their love story was one of enduring commitment and mutual joy, built on shared passions and a deep respect for one another.

A graduate of Moyers High School in the class of 1949, William's journey began humbly, working on a ranch before being inspired by a friend to explore opportunities in Wichita.  In 1951, William began his career at Beech Aircraft in Wichita, demonstrating an extraordinary knack for innovation and leadership. From his start in sheet metal assembly, he rose through the ranks to crew chief and eventually to foreman. A visionary thinker, William's work improvement proposals earned him numerous awards and accolades, leaving an indelible mark on the company before his retirement in 1992.

Between 1954 and 1958, William stepped away from Beech Aircraft to serve his country in the U.S. Air Force during the post-Korean War era. He and Sarah moved often during these years, living in Texas, Georgia, Michigan, and William was stationed in Korea for a time. In 1960, they settled in Andover, Kansas, creating a loving home that would become their haven for decades.

William was a man of many talents and passions. A gifted gardener, he could coax life from any soil, producing abundant vegetables with ease.  He also had a bee hive with two friends and harvested honey.  His skill with his hands extended beyond the garden—he was the family fixer, known for repairing anything in need of mending. William was also an avid outdoorsman who found joy in squirrel hunting with his brother Orval and nephews, fishing trips to the streams of Colorado, and walks in the neighborhood.

He and Sarah found happiness in the simple pleasures of life.  They shared a love of square dancing, spending countless evenings with their Andover Square Dancing group.  They enjoyed watching rodeos and baseball games.  They also bonded over a shared compassion for animals, including taking in several stray cats including orphaned kittens that William lovingly bottle-fed.

In his later years, William became a cherished member of the Andover Senior Center, where he played pool regularly, forming deep connections with his peers. Above all, his heart belonged to his family. He treasured time with his grandsons Skyler, Shayne, and Dylan, passing on his wisdom, humor, and love.

William is survived by his devoted daughter, Christie Henry (Dale); his grandchildren Skyler, Shayne, and Dylan; his brother-in-law Leonard Jordan; and countless nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Sarah, his parents, and his eight siblings, Martha, Marie, Minnie, Robert, Pearl, Orval, his twin George, and Lillie Belle.
William's legacy is one of love, resilience, and quiet strength. He leaves behind a family and community enriched by his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering spirit. As he is laid to rest beside Sarah at Bruno Township Cemetery, we honor a life well-lived and the countless lives he touched.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at 1:00 p.m., followed by a service at 2:00 p.m. at Andover United Methodist Church, 1429 N. Andover Rd., Andover, Kansas.  In lieu of flowers, a memorial is established with the Andover Senior Center.

May his memory forever be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.