Obituary: Ralph Warren Lewis
Maine Resident Ralph Warren Lewis, 93, Dies After Remarkable Life of Service and Creativity
Topsham, Maine – Community leaders and family members confirmed the death of Ralph Warren Lewis, a Brunswick-area resident who passed away peacefully in his sleep on September 14, 2026, at his home in Topsham. He was 93 years old.
Lewis was born in Concordia, Kansas, to Arthur and Sylvia Lewis. He spent his early years in that small town, where he developed a love for photography, music, and scouting. In high school he served as a class officer, earned the rank of Eagle Scout with a Gold Palm, and worked as the school photographer.
His lifelong passion for music led him to sing bass in barbershop quartets and church choirs, a hobby he maintained well into his later years. Photography remained a central interest, eventually shaping his professional path.
In 1952, Ralph married his high‑school sweetheart, Shirley Scovell. The couple celebrated 67 years of marriage before Shirley’s death in 2019. Together they raised four children: Kathy Smith, Lynn Koenig (Dave), Bryan Lewis (Tess), and Ken Lewis (Reba). He also leaves behind a sister, Evelyn Springstead, and a host of nieces and nephews.
Ralph’s public service began in 1953 when he enlisted in the U.S. Navy as a naval photographer. Over a 27‑year career he rose from the enlisted ranks to chief petty officer and ultimately retired with the rank of lieutenant commander. His assignments took him around the world, including a deployment to Antarctica for Operation Deep Freeze. After leaving the Navy, he remained connected to his naval photography roots through the National Association of Naval Photographers.
Following his military career, Lewis embarked on a second profession in the burgeoning computer industry. He worked with Apple Computers and later founded Mac‑Care, a venture that allowed him to blend his technical expertise with his love of problem‑solving. In his free time he enjoyed mystery novels, woodworking, travel, and sharing sea stories with shipmates.
Faith and family were central pillars of his life. He was an active member of Bath United Methodist Church, where he participated in choir and community activities. Those close to him say his humor and warmth were evident in every conversation.
A service honoring his life has been scheduled for 1 p.m. on November 7 at Bath United Methodist Church, located at 340 Oak Grove Avenue in Bath. The ceremony will be followed by a reception at the American Legion Post located at 200 Congress Avenue, also in Bath. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to Bath United Methodist Church, 340 Oak Grove Avenue, Bath, ME 04530.
Friends and acquaintances will remember Ralph Lewis for his dedication to duty, his artistic eye, and the enduring bond he shared with his wife Shirley. As one close friend recalled, “Fair winds and following seas, Ralph. We’ve got the watch.”
The family asks that guests join in honoring a man whose life touched many, both through his professional achievements and his gentle spirit.
