Sept. 21, 1920 – Oct. 25, 2015

Lewis (Lewie) William Shell, 95, passed away Oct. 25, 2015, at Rock Creek Rehabilitation Center at Sheridan Manor. He was born Sept. 21, 1920, to Lawrence C. and Elizabeth (Roark) Shell in Horton, located near Newcastle. He was the second oldest of eight children. The family moved to Sheridan when he was about 2. He attended Holy Name School, and then during the Depression, the family moved to Passiac, where he attended Whedon school.  He graduated from Sheridan High School in 1938.

While in high school, he joined the Wyoming National Guard, serving in the cavalry, as he was unable to join the other military services due to being color blind.

He met Thelma Bliss at a surprise birthday party that his mother threw for him. They were married in Hardin, Montana, on Aug. 12, 1940, and enjoyed 65 years of marriage and raising three children. Thelma passed away in 2007.

Over the years, Lewie worked on a number of different ranches in the Sheridan area and as security guard at Big Horn Coal. Lewie was a lifetime member of the Elks Lodge 520.  

He enjoyed gardening and was known by many for his tomatoes and cucumbers.  

He was an avid reader, did leather work, played bridge, loved fishing and always looked forward to seeing his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; brothers Lawrence, Thomas (Johnnie) and David; and sister, Madge Herden. He is survived by two brothers, Benjamin of Denton, Texas, and George of Apache Junction, Arizona; a sister, Charloett (Jeanette) Zowada; two sons, Lewis LeRoy (Karen) of Banner, and Jim (Linda) of Buffalo; a daughter, Ardath (John) Lunbeck of Story; five grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. A memorial service is planned for a later date. Donations may be made to the Sheridan Senior Center, 211 Smith St., Sheridan, WY  82801.  Arrangements are under the direction of Champion Funeral Home. Online condolences may be written at www.championfh.com.

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