Lewis Burt Hurwitz

Lewis “Lew” Hurwitz, born in South Carolina in 1952, was a husband, father, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew and friend. He was a bright song, often lifting up those around him with hearty and upbeat melodies. Jokes were the lyrics; laughter was the instrument and his smiles were the harmonies.

Lewis had an intelligent humor, a sharp wit, deep sensitivity, a broad knowledge base, innate curiosity and a large capacity for helping others. He was kind, well-read and passionate about listening to music, watching baseball and observing birds — particularly hawks and  hummingbirds — and eating good food. Science, weather and outer space fascinated him. Nature was Lew’s temple; he would stop what he was doing to absorb a beautiful sunset, the stars, the rain. He revered the quietness of a landscape and the solitude of mountains and forests. He spent hours in awe of the nighttime stars, and listening to birds talk and sing.

Lewis loved learning, always reading books and watching documentaries on sports, music, history, hiking and backpacking, archaeology, art, Judaism, geography, science and food/cooking. A strong hiker, his accomplishments included summitting Mount Whitney, Half Dome while backpacking the John Muir Trail, Mount Marcy, Mount San Gorgonio, Saddleback Mountain (Santiago Peak) and Mount San Jacinto, among others.

Much of Lew’s career was in aerospace as a quality engineer, helping SpaceX put rockets into space. The industry benefited from his experience, expert inspection skills and attention to detail in his job. He called out most military aircraft as they flew overhead.

As a husband, Lewis was caring and always affectionate. He often sang to his wife Carol before they would go to sleep. He made up songs about the rabbits and squirrels she loved that foraged in the backyard of their home. Lew was also responsible and a good conversationalist, with strong opinions based on his daily reading about current events. He and Carol shared a love of hiking and exploring; their first date was a 15-mile hike. Their favorite vacations together included a backpacking trip through Yosemite National Park, and exploring Greece.

As a father, Lewis shared with his daughters moments that became lasting touchstones. He introduced them to “Star Wars” and the classic action films of the '80s, sparking a sense of imagination, adventure and fun. Summers often brought time at the beach, where days were spent near the ocean, learning to appreciate the water, the thrill of jet skiing and the simple joy of being outdoors. These experiences reflected Lew’s love of exploration and left his daughters with memories rooted in laughter, time spent together and the enduring pull of the sea. Lew’s sister Judi will always hold deep love for him. Despite their not being as close in recent years, she will remember him for the life they shared growing up, the memories that shaped them both, and the quiet constants that defined Lew — among them his love of baseball. Judi will remember him with affection, reflection and care, and he will always hold a place in her heart.

Lewis is survived by his wife, Carol; their beloved dog, Blu; daughters Jessica and Ashley; sister and brother-in-law Judi and Grant; nieces Jennifer and Stephanie; uncle and aunt Harold and Hartha; and cousins Lael, Larry and Evan.

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