Duane Rickie (Rick) Lewis of Rio Dell passed away March 4, 2023. He was born to Richard and Roberta Lewis on June 21, 1953, in Arcata. He was the youngest of five children, having four older brothers and one older sister.

He graduated from McKinleyville High School, which is also where he met his wife, Teresa Dore. They were married in 1974 and had two daughters. They first raised their girls in Orick, close to Teresa’s parents and their family hometown. On the weekends, they would often drive to McKinleyville for Lewis gatherings, gaining numerous stories that have been told numerous times and will hopefully continue to be. Rick worked for Arcata Redwood for many years. The family moved to Fortuna in 1985 when Rick obtained a position with Pacific Lumber Company.

Our dad was not only our mentor, but our playmate. We looked forward to him coming home every day, especially during the summer months in Orick. He would often take us fishing, teaching us both at young ages to bait a hook and cast, (although I doubt either of us are capable now-unless it’s like riding a bike). Speaking of which, bike riding was a definite past time which we did often together. One of us never learned to use our bike brakes and would crash into the mobile home to stop. He would do damage control to prevent her from being in trouble with our mom. He loved the outdoors, nature and all of the animals in it.

Rick worked at Pacific Lumber Company in many different positions, starting with pulling green chain and ending with loader operator. He received the nickname “Bobber” while pushing logs on the pond. He enjoyed playing softball and basketball on one of the PL company teams each year.

Our dad was a giver. He gave and did for many, including his in-laws in their final years. We have seen many obituaries that say, “they would have taken their shirt off their back for anyone”, and our father is among that category of humans.

He is survived by his children Jackie (Joe) Eldridge, Monica Pitts, his grandchildren Mackenzie Eldridge, Madison Eldridge, and Hallie Pitts, his brothers David (Sue) Lewis, Donald (Karen) Lewis, Dennis (Kathy) Lewis and sister Diane Grimes. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Richard and Roberta Lewis, and his wife Teresa (Dore) Lewis.

His ashes will be spread with the love of his life, Teresa. No funeral services will be held.

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