Elmer "Bud" Lewis

Elmer “Bud” Lewis passed away peacefully on November 18, 2024, at the age of 101. He led a wonderful, exemplary life, he was loved by many and will be sincerely missed. 

Born on September 1, 1923, Bud grew up in Winona, Missouri where he met and later married his high school sweetheart Betty Jo. 

Following in his father’s footsteps, Bud joined the United States Marine Corps where he served his country as a fighter pilot flying Corsairs, A-4 Skyhawks, and F-4 Phantoms. After serving tours of duty in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars, he was awarded the rank of Lt. Colonel.  Highlights of his career included assignments at Quantico and the Pentagon. 

After retiring, Bud and Betty Jo settled in Tucson, Arizona, where Bud ventured into a second career in real estate. He became a highly respected land broker and achieved the Accredited Farm and Land Member (AFLM) designation.  

Bud’s legacy is one of courage, dedication, and love. He was a man who valued family above all, cherishing the time spent with his loved ones. His adventurous spirit and unwavering dedication to his country left an indelible mark on all who knew him. 

He is preceded in death by his wife, Betty Jo (2012), and his youngest daughter Lisa (Mike LePage) (2016). Bud is survived by his children Kent Lewis and Jodi Chapman (Swain Chapman), six grandchildren (Steffani Chapman, Erik Chapman, Aaron Lewis, Jeff Lewis, Michael LePage, Jonathan LePage), and four great-grandchildren. 

Memorial Services will be held on Tuesday, February 25th at 11 AM, at Arizona Veterans Memorial Center Cemetery at 15950 N. Luckett Rd., Marana, AZ.