Current Services

Elery "Skip" Lewis
10-25-2024

Elery “Skip” Lewis, 80, was called to heaven on October 25, 2024 at his home on Wall Lake surrounded by his family.

Elery was born December 2, 1943 in Lake Crystal, Minnesota to Wayne and Bernice (Nelson) Lewis. He graduated from Lake Crystal High School in 1961, then attended Mankato State University. He later moved to San Francisco to pursue a degree in Mortuary Science, graduating in 1963. Elery returned to the Midwest and settled in Sioux Falls earning the nickname “Skip” and where he met and married the love of his life, Rita Wheeler. The two were united in marriage on February 27, 1965.

Skip’s career spanned numerous business ventures including 20 years as the owner of Tiki Liquor, Funeral Director for 60 years, and owner of Barnett-Lewis Funeral Home for the last 50 years. This became a family-centered endeavor that allowed him to serve his community. He is recognized as the third-longest licensee holder in the SD State Funeral Association.

Skip was passionate about his community and enjoyed a variety of activities. He was an avid water-skier, boater, bowler and active in softball where he took part as a player, coach and sponsor throughout his life. As a committed member to the Elks Club, Sertoma Club, and the Knights of Columbus (where he served as Grand Knight), Skip devoted his time to causes close to his heart. He was a member of St. Michael Parish, where he was present at countless events to support his granddaughters.

With a strong belief in service, Skip supported several organizations including the Wounded Warrior Project, St. Jude’s Hospital, Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools, and Lifescape. Each summer, he generously offered boat rides to children at Spirit Camp, a tradition he cherished deeply.

Skip was immensely proud of his family. He is survived by his sister: Deloris; his children: Lisa (Kent) Huemoeller, Kathy (Rob) Junker, and David (Erin) Lewis; his granddaughters: Kelli (Nate) Noel; Terra and Jenna Huemoeller, Taylor, Allison and Lindsey Junker, and Paige and Paiten Lewis; great-granddaughter: Kourtney Noel; as well as his niece, nephews, many cousins, and special friends, including Pat and Marv Hoek. Skip was preceded in death by his parents, beloved wife, Rita, and granddaughter, Lauren Lewis.

Visitation will be held at Barnett-Lewis Funeral Home on Friday, November 1, beginning at 3:00 PM, followed by a Scripture Service and time of sharing at 6:00 PM. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Michael Parish on Saturday, November 2, 10:30 AM with lunch to follow. Interment will be at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Montrose, SD.