Obituary of Richard R Lewis

Richard R. Lewis Richard R. Lewis, 63, of Rome passed away on January 1, 2020 at UPSTATE University Hospital, with his loving family at his side. Richard bravely fought an aggressive brain cancer with everything he had for the past eight months. He was born on May 7, 1956 in Trenton, N.J. a son of the late George J. and Marilyn Groff Lewis. On July 24, 1976 he was united in marriage to Mary Jane Sullivan in a ceremony which took place in St. Peters Church, Rome. Early in his career he worked for Revere Copper & Brass, then for many years Richard owned and operated R & M Heating & Electric of Rome. Following his retirement he worked at Mike’s Cycle & Sport Shop on Turin Rd. Richard was skilled at everything mechanical. He enjoyed the challenge of getting something to run again that others would have given up on. He was an avid motorcyclist who enjoyed both motocross and street bikes. When not traversing back roads on one of his motorcycles, Richard could be found building and operating his model railroad layout. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Jane Lewis, Rome; two daughters and one son-in-law, Amy and Timothy Hughes and Kelly Mangione all of Marcy; a brother, Russell (fiance’ Debbie Yackel) Lewis, Manlius; one sister Cynthia (Douglas) Cahill, Rome; Cherished grandchildren who were his pride and joy, Aubrey and Karley Hughes and Jack Mangione; along with several nieces and nephews. Richard was predeceased by his father and mother-in-law, Francis and Margaret Sullivan; along with several aunts and uncles. The family wishes to thank Dr. Alina Basnet (Oncologist), along with the team of physicians at UPSTATE University hospital. The nursing staff of 10E provided wonderful care to Richard. The care and compassion shown by the nursing staff to both Richard and in turn, to his family, will never be forgotten. Memorial contributions may be made to the Utica Ride for Kids in support of the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation (https://team.curethekids.org/event/2020-utica-ride-for-kids/e253178). Funeral services are private. Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Saturday, January 4, 2020 from 1-3 P.M. at the Strong-Burns & Sprock Funeral Home 7751 Merrick Road, Rome.