John Lopes Lewis

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John Lopes Lewis, who was born on March 13, 1938, in Newman, CA, on his mama’s kitchen table. Surrounded by his loved ones, John peacefully left this world on December 5, 2023, at his ranch in Winton, CA. John spent the early years of his life in Santa Nella until the age of 7 when his family acquired a dairy in Stevinson, CA. Growing up, he attended local schools and developed a strong work ethic from a young age. At the age of 19, John embarked on a new chapter in his life, moving to the Fremont area where he honed his skills as a carpenter for three years. He eventually returned home to contribute to the family's dairy business. In the course of his journey, John met the love of his life, Alice Faria in 1962. The two kindred spirits joined in matrimony on March 23, 1963, in a courthouse ceremony married by Merced County Judge Flossie which marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership. Later, in 1990, they joyously renewed their vows at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church in Merced. After their marriage, John and Alice established their home in Stevinson, residing on his family dairy until they took a signiﬁcant step in the dairy business by acquiring their own dairy. They moved many times but eventually resided in Snelling, CA for 38 years. In the year 2000, John transitioned from dairy farming to becoming an almond farmer in Winton, CA. Throughout his life, John was known for his dedication to hard work, his unwavering commitment to his family, and his warm, compassionate nature. He found joy in spending quality time with his family, indulging in the pleasures of karaoke, dancing, playing cards and tending to his garden with various fruits, vegetables, sunﬂowers and most notably his extra-large pumpkins. His talents also shone in the realm of draft horse pulling, a pursuit he entered in 1983. With his horses, Charlie and Barney, John garnered several awards, including the championship at the state fair. John was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Joe Lewis, and his siblings, Joe Lewis and Jim Lewis. He is survived by his loving wife, Alice Faria Lewis, and their two sons, Johnny Lewis (Charity Dixon) and Tony Lewis (Natalie Lewis). John is also survived by his sister, Rosemary Amaral Macedo (Ray Macedo), and his cherished grandchildren: Sarah Bell, Allison Lewis, Heather Nascimento, John Wesley Lewis, Antone Lewis, Zachary Lewis, Alex Alvarado, Gabrielle Aponte, Aubreanne Aponte, Dylan Dixon, Gillian Aponte, and 13 great-grandchildren, with the 14th expected in January along with many cousins, nieces and nephews. A viewing to celebrate the life of John Lopes Lewis will be held on Thursday, December 21, 2023 from 5-7 pm at Turlock Funeral Home. Family and friends are invited to join together to share memories and pay their respects during this time of reﬂection. A Catholic Rosary and Funeral Mass in honor of John will take place on Friday, December 22 at 12 pm at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Hilmar, CA. Reception to follow after burial at the Turlock Memorial Park. In lieu of ﬂowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Merced County Farm Bureau, PO Box 1232, Merced, CA 95341. Please note John Lopes Lewis on the donation. John had a deep connection to agriculture, and these donations will contribute to initiatives that uphold the values and interests that were dear to John throughout his life. May these gatherings serve as an opportunity for everyone touched by John's life to come together, ﬁnd solace in shared memories, and celebrate the impact he had on the lives of those around him. John was a man of many talents with a heart full of love. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his memory continue to bring warmth and inspiration to those who knew him.

Tributes

John Lopes Lewis

March 13, 1938 - December 5, 2023