Don “Diesel” Lewis
BELGRADE – Don “Diesel” Lewis, 70, of Belgrade, unexpectedly passed on to his own heavenly version of Happy Valley, on Jan. 10, 2024. He was born in Allentown, Pa. to the late Doris and Don Lewis.
Don attended Kutztown University of Pennsylvania before going on to join the motor freight transportation industry. The majority of his career was spent at Portland Air Freight where he excelled at his job and personalized every square inch of his office with his favorite things. Don was involved in the National Motor Freight Traffic Association for 18 years where he did his best to support his fellow members and improve industry practices.
For the last 30 years Don has participated in sharing his passion for sports with the community. He helped coach, referee, and/or umpire all three of his children in various youth leagues before primarily blessing the baseball community as a dependable umpire. He truly adored sharing his love of the game with the players and their families, quoting the rule book when necessary, telling jokes and trivia during breaks, encouraging players to be the best they can be, and to always be open to learning new things. He wouldn’t dream of not being a part of the season; perhaps he will be there in the hearts of those playing and spectating. Don’t forget to “squish the bug.”
While Don’s passing has left a void in many hearts, he has also left behind enough Penn State shirts and hats to clothe Belgrade village. He loved pike fishing, perfecting his cannonballs in the pool, taste testing chips while watching football, being Santa for local events, telling dad jokes, and enjoying Dunkin hazelnut hot coffee with a turbo shot added for good measure. He loved visiting various places along the coast of Maine with family, friends, and the dogs in his life. If he chose to stay local, you could find him at Christy’s store.
Don is survived by his wife of 31 years, Helene; sons, Ryan and Morgan, daughter, Taylor; granddaughters, Lydia and Caroline; siblings Donalee and Marcia; nieces, nephews, and many loved ones in Pennsylvania; five beloved family dogs; and a cherished life size cardboard cutout of Joe Paterno.
Please join us in celebrating Don’s life at Union Church in Belgrade village on Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024 from 1 – 3 p.m.
Arrangements are in the care of Wheeler Funeral Home 26 Church Street Oakland Maine where memories may be shared, and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.
No flowers, but please consider donating to the Little League Organization he was so fond of:
Messalonskee Cal Ripken
PO Box 693
Oakland, ME 04963
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