Lewis B. Small Sr.

LITCHFIELD – Lewis B. Small Sr., 90, died peacefully on Tuesday, July 9, 2024 following a brief illness, his loving family was by his side.

Lewis was born on Dec. 17,1933 in Gardiner, the son of the late Baxter L. Small and Harriet A. Enman Small Hinkley. He attended local schools and graduated from Gardiner High School. After high school he enlisted and served in the United States Navy, after honorable discharge, Lewis attended many educational accounting courses and seminars.

His first job was an accounting supervisor for more than 20 years with Central Maine Power Company. He later earned his real estate license, at which time he started his own business, Tacoma Lakes Realty, which he owned and operated for more than 40 years. Besides real estate he was also a licensed Public Accountant and a licensed Auctioneer.

In his early years he enjoyed bowling, served on the Gardiner City Council, a member of the Maine Republican Party, a lifelong member of the West Gardiner Grange and was recognized in the Who’s Who of Real Estate. Lewis became very involved in the Lions Club, joining the Gardiner Lions in 1969 to present, serving in all club offices. He became District Governor in 1987, Council Chairman in Gardiner, 1988; International Director of Lions International Association from 1992-1994. His volunteering in “Lionism” has been a very important part of his life in later years. He served as cook for more than 20 years with his club, helping those in need, especially with the Christmas Basket deliveries. He was a person who put others first rather than himself. A willingness to become a “Service Leader” with a purpose to serve and not to be served. He will be missed by those who’s life he has touched over the years.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the crew at Terrace West, Lauren, Angela, Amanda G. and Dr. Corriveau for their compassion and empathy. The weekend outings will be in our memory forever.

Lewis was predeceased by his wife, Ardis B. Small.

He is survived by two daughters, Linda B. Bladen of Randolph and Louise S. and her husband, Peter Couillard of Oakland; a half-sister, Gloria Snell of Vassalboro, stepbrother, Melvin Hinkley of Florida; step-granddaughter, Ruth Bladen; special cousin, Dick Freeman; special friend, Jane; several nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours celebrating Lewis’s life will be held on Sunday, July 14, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner. A funeral service will be held on Monday, July 15, at 11 a.m. at the First Baptist Church, 47 Church St., Gardiner. Burial will be private in Fairbanks Cemetery. To view Lewis’s memorial page, or to share an online condolence, please visit http://www.StaplesFuneralHome.com

Those who wish may make contributions in Lewis’s memory to:

Maine Lions Sight and

Hearing Foundation,

c/o Gardiner Lions Club,

25 Lions St.,

Gardiner, ME 04345