May 10, 1935 – April 18, 2026
Always one to go the distance, Jerome (Jerry) Carter Lewis’s passing at age 90 in his home in Mountain View, California brings to close another remarkable run in a life defined by endurance, purpose and devotion.
Jerry was born in San Francisco. He spent most of his life in Santa Clara County, growing up in Los Altos and graduating from Mountain View High School. His leadership skills became evident at age 14 when he became an Eagle Scout. In high school, he lettered in football and track – the latter launching his lifelong passion as an elite runner. He ran a 4:19 mile in college and a 2:44 marathon while in his 40s. He was also featured on the cover of Runner’s World magazine in August 1977.
After a year at Santa Clara University, he earned a congressional appointment to the U.S. Military Academy West Point. There he competed in cross-country and track, serving as captain of the cross-country team in 1957. On graduation day in 1958, he married Barbara Anne Harvey, whom he met at a summer dance in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Their union was celebrated with a traditional West Point ceremony beneath the Arch of Sabers. As newlyweds, Jerry and Barbara embarked on a military career taking them across the U.S. and Europe. They lived in Oklahoma, Texas, Georgia, North Carolina, and spent three years in Germany at the foot of the Alps. He was a Ranger in the 82nd Airborne Division Artillery and completed 39 parachute jumps. In Europe, he served as a Battery Commander and worked on the 7th Army NCO Academy and coached the U.S. Military Pentathlon team. In 1965, after seven years in the Army, where he rose to the rank of Captain, Jerry and Barbara returned to Santa Clara County for civilian life.
Jerry was among the pioneers of a burgeoning Silicon Valley. He was a Systems Analyst at United Airlines for four years before joining Lockheed Martin where he spent 32 years. He retired in 2001 as a Test Engineer in Space Systems. He loved being part of the Valley’s dynamic growth.
Above all, Jerry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather – a true family man. He cherished time with his loved ones and instilled in them a deep appreciation for the outdoors. Camping, skiing, cycling and hiking were central to his life. He was also a steadfast caregiver to his wife Barbara throughout her years of declining health. His commitment extended to his faith and community – for decades, he served as an usher at St. William Catholic Church, organized high school reunions, and acted as a vital point of connection for his West Point class of 1958.
This past year, Jerry resided at BridgePoint Senior Living in Los Altos where he formed new friendships, enjoyed activities like yoga and outings, and was affectionately known as “Captain”. It is there that he met his close companion, Martha Brouwer.
Jerry lived a life grounded in faith, honor and love. Humble, kind, and selfless, he consistently placed others before himself. He was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his four children and their spouses: Dennis (Cathleen), Jayne (Dennis); Charlie (Carrie); and Jacqueline (Peter). He is also remembered and adored by his six grandchildren Laura, Patrick, Kienna, Bryce, Chas, and Aidan; and four great-grandchildren Alma, Filippa, Winter and Mateo. He is preceded in death by his wife Barbara and his brothers Pete and Leandro.
Funeral services will be held at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Los Altos on Saturday, April 25 th at 11am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Catholic Medical Mission Board (CMMB) https://cmmb.org/
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