John D. Lewis

John D. Lewis, 85, of Watertown, passed away September 7, 2025, at Samaritan Medical Center surrounded by his family.

Born June 11, 1940, in Watertown, NY, son of the late Samuel (Inncento Mancino) and Nettie (Fenlong) Lewis. He grew up on the north side and was a true “9th Warder”.

John served in the United States Marine Corps from 1958-1962 and was honorably discharged. His tour of military service was extended due to the Cuban Missile Crisis and was troop transported to the waters of Guantanamo Bay during this historic event. He was proud to be a Marine and serve his country…. Semper Fi.

He married Linda Anne Burns on November 15, 1969, at Holy Family Church with the Reverend Msgr. William J. Argy officiating.

In the early 1960’s John worked at Joe Powers Furniture store and the Watertown Golf Club. He was always grateful for the guidance given to him by the late Dr. Arthur Peckham and Joe Powers. He was employed at the New York Air Brake for 14 years and retired from Fort Drum with 20 years of service.

John was honored to have played with and against so many talented athletes on fast-pitch softball teams. He loved golf. John was a communicant at Holy Family Church, member of the Watertown American Legion Post 61, past member of the Brownville American legion Post 588, the Watertown Gold Club, the Marine Corps league and the Dick Doe’s “Over the Hill” league at Highland Meadows Golf Club.

Surviving besides his wife, Linda, are a daughter Kelly; a son Jason; one sister, Madge B. Campbell; and several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents and two sisters, Mary Bidwell Taylor and Sandra Gagniere; two brothers-in-law, John Campbell and James Gagniere, Sr.

At John’s request there will be no calling hours. A funeral mass will be held Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at 11 am at Holy Family Church with Reverend Michael Gaffney officiating. The family will receive friends immediately after mass in the church’s gathering area. Burial will follow in Dexter Cemetery with military honors. Arrangements are with D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc.

Online condolences may be made to www.dlcalarco.com

Memorial contributions may be made in his name to Sisters of the Precious Blood, 400 Pratt Street, Watertown, NY 13601 or to Holy Family Church, 129 Winthrop Street, Watertown, NY 13601.

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