A TRIBUTE TO THOMAS MYRON LEWIS
From his sister, Linda Langrock
Thomas Myron Lewis was a very special man in many unique and exceptional ways. Hidden inside his Autism was a truly smart, funny, and happy man. He was one heck of a very special guy who wore many hats. His distinctive approach to say “Hello” to someone usually came with sound effects and strong gestures. His actions were like the “Toot, Toot” of a train engine blowing its horn, which couldn’t be missed. At other times, Tom took a moment to communicate, somewhat like a computer as it searches for an online blog. But like a computer, he had a great deal to say and slowly but surely, he would tell his story. (In the words of his favorite idol that he frequently used; he was a “Hunk A Hunk of burning love.”)
Tom was a true hero when he participated in the Special Olympics, where he would frequently bring home the Gold! He was also a prolific bowler, where almost every throw of the ball resulted in a strike, and he easily carried a 200-game average. Swimming every day at the YMCA was his way of life for many years. During the summers, he attended baseball games at Clinton River-Front Minor League Stadium. Tom demonstrated his loyalty to the team by collecting discarded drink cups. He didn’t collect only a few or even a dozen, or a hundred. No, he collected them until he had brought home several thousand cups. Perhaps his actions were guided by a sense of purpose, or the cups were a treasure to him, we’ll never know for sure, and I’m sorry now that I ridiculed his habit.
Tom also had a fascination for model trains, which brought him great joy. He was very knowledgeable about trains and spent many hours with his model train buddies. He would become very excited whenever he would get a new car to show off.
Of course, with play comes work. Tom’s job for many happy years was with the Clinton Herald, delivering papers. His years at the Herald are a testament to his work ethic, as he delivered the paper each day, through every kind of brutal winter weather, and on Christmas Eve, or holidays, year after year. Tom never missed a delivery of the paper.
Tom’s greatest love was his dearly beloved Lanna. Together, they balanced each other out. Tom, with few words, and Lanna with her gift to gab. They were a blessing to each other. I missed them both after I moved to Arizona. In my heart I always knew that my brother was great and doing his thing.
My tribute to Tom would be remiss if I didn’t include a tribute to the “Brightest Stars,” our Mother and Father, who despite the many varied challenges, devoted every ounce of their love and energy toward raising Tom from a child into an amazing man.
I am very proud of my brother, Thomas Myron Lewis.
