Fredrick Michael Lewis

Fredrick Michael Lewis of Oakdale passed away on March 6, 2024 at the age of 73. He was preceded in death by his parents, John Sam Lewis and Anna Irene Lewis. He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Ronnette Lewis; two daughters, Rhianna Miller (Vance) and Amanda Barnett (Dustin); three grandsons, Lane and Levi Miller, and Andrew Barnett; and brother John Lewis. He leaves behind many friends, family, and pets who will miss him dearly. 

Fred was born in Oakdale, CA on November 1, 1950. He was the youngest of two siblings, and lived with his parents and grandparents on their dairy farm. He worked hard and played hard during these formative years and had many fond memories from his childhood - playing and working on the farm, camping, fishing, hunting, and getting up to shenanigans. Fred graduated from Oakdale High School in 1968 and took classes briefly at Modesto Junior College. In 1975 he met Ronnette through mutual friends and began a love that would last the rest of their lives and bring forward two daughters and three grandsons, all whom he cherished. In 2007 Fred retired after 37 years as a forklift driver and supervisor for ConAgra Foods. 

Fred was known for his wit, sense of humor, and fierce spirit. He was an avid hunter in his youth and loved the outdoors. He appreciated the beauty in the natural world, particularly the quaking aspens in Ravendale, CA, and loved animals of all kinds. He was an insatiable reader of early American history, and was passionate about politics and the state of the world. He loved sports, particularly baseball and football, and rooted tirelessly for the San Francisco Giants and 49ers. 

He didn’t always have a lot of words, unless talking politics or sports, or beating someone at jeopardy, but it was the small gestures that made us all know how much Fred loved us. He made the best buttered popcorn and hash browns anyone ever tasted, and sang the best happy birthday songs to his family. His big spirit, wealth of knowledge, boisterous laugh, and loving heart will be missed beyond measure. 

The family is planning a celebration of life to honor Fred, and will provide details in the coming weeks.