Oscar C. Lewis

Oscar C. Lewis, 72, of Rochester, NY, passed away unexpectedly on August 17, 2025. His sudden passing has left his family deeply saddened and shocked.

Born on November 17, 1952, Oscar lived a life full of passion, service, and unwavering devotion to his family and community. He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Peggy (née Flannery); his children Amanda Cleeton (Scott) and Joshua Lewis (Kathleen), and his three cherished grandsons, Gavin, George, and Benjamin, with whom he shared a close and deeply loving bond.

 Oscar also leaves behind his sisters Martha (John) Bryson, Polly Osborne of Bath, NY, and Sue (Sam) Wood of Winfield, PA; and his sister-in-law, Pat Flannery. As well as nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother Richard Leonard and sister Augusta Lewis.

Oscar had recently retired from the City of Rochester after 20 years of dedicated service. A proud union official, he was a fierce advocate for workers’ rights and believed strongly in protecting the dignity and voice of working people. But perhaps his greatest legacy lies in his more than 40 years of volunteering with Scouting America and Troop 37, a role that defined his life and values. From leading youth in his hometown to spending countless fall and spring weekends at Massawepie Scout Camp in the Adirondacks. His last weeks were spent doing what he loved most: making memories with his family in Ocean City, NJ, and taking his grandson Gavin to see scout camp.

Oscar had a passion for life’s little curiosities. He was a lifelong collector of objects, facts, stories, and propane tanks. If you needed something, odds were Oscar had three versions of it and was happy to lend or gift one. He was known to pull over his car at the sight of a dollar bill, a shiny object, or anything that piqued his interest. He could talk to anyone and his gregarious spirit made him unforgettable.

He spent his youth hunting with his nephew in Bath, NY, working at a bicycle shop, and spending weekends at Watkins Glen Raceway. He greatly enjoyed the hobby of train watching and made many friends over there "at the tracks".  His family will never be able to watch Jeopardy! without hearing his running commentary or random trivia facts, nor will they forget his unsolicited advice and infectious enthusiasm for everything from Hawaiian shirts to questionable winter shoveling attire. We love you OC!

He would be honored to have donations made to Troop 37 BSA, 5 Ramsey Park, Rochester NY 14610. Family and friends are invited to calling hours on Friday, August 22, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Crawford Funeral Home.

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