Lewis Oscar “Lew” Kerwood passed away on Friday, December 14, 2012, in Pensacola, Florida.

Lewis was a decorated World War II hero, an esteemed educator and author, a gymnast, a drummer, a patriot, and so much more. For his dedicated efforts, he received many awards attesting to his leadership and accomplishments, including the Bronze Star for valor.

Above all else, he was a loving, inspirational, generous and devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and friend.

He was a man of honor, humor, wisdom, dignity, grace and kindness.

Lewis was born in Warrensburg, Illinois, on August 9, 1917. He lived much of his life in Warrensburg, Decatur, and Villa Park, Illinois, and in Potomac, Maryland. 

Lewis was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 62 years and light of his life, Frances Marie Jarrett Kerwood, by his parents Charles Raymond Kerwood and Clara Myrtle Kerwood, and by his brothers Charles Donald Kerwood and Richard Eugene Kerwood. 

He is survived by his children Susan Alane Burnette, Ronald Lynn Kerwood, Joan Marie Becker (husband John Michael Becker) and Jeffry Jarrett Kerwood (wife Renata Fontenelle Kerwood), by his grandchildren Destiny Lee Macaraeg, Gentry Jarrett Kerwood and Clara Fontenelle De Gouveia, by his great-grandchildren Bry Marie Macaraeg, Julian Lewis Macaraeg and Miles Keaton Macaraeg, and by his sister Doris Caroline Chandler.

Services to celebrate Lewis’ life will be at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, December 20, 2012, in Warrensburg United Methodist Church, 190 North Main Street, Warrensburg, Illinois. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the services at the church. Burial with military honors will be in Graceland Cemetery in Decatur.

He will be greatly missed by so many. May he rest in peace, with our love.

The family of Lewis Kerwood is being served by the Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home, 2091 N. Oakland Avenue, Decatur, Illinois. You may view the online obituary, send condolences, and share memories at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.