In Loving Memory

John Lewin (1914-1996)

This page was created to preserve the memory of a great man, and a person whom I loved very much. My grandfather passed away on December 4th, 1996 at the age of 82. He was a person who I very much admired, and who I miss dearly.

Everybody loves their Grandpa. Grandparents have it easy, they can spoil you rotten, and then turn you back over to your parents. My grandfather was so much more than that, he was an inspiration to so many people. He was the person that 32 years of students at Senior High School adored. By his actions he showed me exactly what committment is about.

Grandpa was in the army and retired as a Chief Warrant Officer after 24 years in the service. He then returned and worked another 32 years for Senior High School, the very school he had graduated from in 1933.

On the day after his death, this was the announcement that was heard over the intercom at the school:

Senior High School, the Dubuque Community, and I lost a best friend yesterday. His name was John Lewin and for those of you that didn't get to know him, he was the little guy who collected your tickets at Dalzell Field and the Nora Gym for years. But to those of us who knew him, he was so much more.
He graduated with the class of 1933, served in the army, then returned to his school as head custodian until he retired. He loved Senior High School so much that he remained active with the Booster Club and activity ticket sales right up to his final week.
In October, he was inducted into the Senior High School Hall of Fame.
I have never known a person who had such devotion and caring; he loved this school and everyone connected with it.
He was one of those special people who come into our lives, touch our hearts, and change us for the better, forever. He will be sadly missed by all.
I am asking at this time, that we take a few moments of silence, to remember our best friend John. Thank You.

The Senior Hall of Fame referred to in this letter is a prestigious group of individuals that included coach Johnny Orr, and the first Heisman Trophy winner Jay Berwanger. October 19th, 1996 was one of his proudest moments, a day when Senior tried to give back to grandpa, what grandpa had given to them.

I'll miss you Grandad, but somehow I know you're watching over me. I love you.