David H. Lewis

David Harold Lewis, 56, died Tuesday, July 2, 2013, at his home. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 31 years, Judy Lewis; his parents, Paul and Louise Lewis of Scotia, N.Y.; son, Paul (PJ) Lewis; daughters, Elizabeth Lewis, Rachel Lewis, and Shawn Lewis Albert and her husband, Michael; three grandsons, Andrew, Brendan, and Evan Albert; his brothers, Nathan Lewis and fiance, Colleen Abbato, Martin Lewis, and Robert Lewis; his sister, Rena; two sisters-in-law, Brenda Lewis and Maria Lewis; and his niece, Kaylee Lewis, and nephew, Jonah Lewis After a carefree childhood in Scotia, N.Y., David's early career took many turns; he was a farmhand, child care worker, caretaker, and carpenter. In 1984, he began working for the Lake Buel District, a job he continued for as long as his health permitted. A life-long love of fireworks was fulfilled when he started his own business, Berkshire Fireworks, in 1989. The small company was inspired by a desire to celebrate his treasured mother, whose birthday is July 4. He took pleasure in the opportunity to bring joy and happiness to others by taking part in special occasions and the 4th of July. He embraced working out of his home because of his love of gardening, barbecuing perfect steaks for guests, and his dog, Morgan. In both his personal and professional life, David was a man of strong passions. He was committed to both the Jewish principles of his upbringing and the Christian faith he adopted as an adult. His strict moral compass was tempered with compassion for others, especially his family, whom he loved and was loved by dearly. A gifted storyteller, he enjoyed recalling humorous tales of working on farms and in schools or carousing with his brothers. He would sometimes surprise by reciting perfect swathes of Spanish or Hebrew from middle school memory and occasionally broke into song when especially happy. He died as he lived: brave, faithful, and surrounded by devoted family. FUNERAL NOTICE: Calling hours will be Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Hope Church, 259 Kemble St., Lenox. The funeral will be Saturday at 11 a.m. at the Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Operation Nehemiah, in care of the Roche Funeral Home, 120 Main St., Lenox, MA 01240.