Lewis's obituary
Born June 27, 1960 in Philadelphia, PA, Lew was the second of four sons of Lewis W. and Barbara L. Pennell. Lew was a graduate of the Center for Vocational Arts in Norwalk, CT and spent the early part of his career working as a mechanic in the sheet metal industry. In 2003, he began work at Mountainside Treatment Center in Canaan, CT, where he was a transportation coordinator for ten years. Lew helped usher hundreds of people toward recovery from addiction, both literally and figuratively: he was the first person to greet those looking to make a new life for themselves, and he offered compassion and empathy by sharing his own journey. Lew was a friend to many in the recovery community, and his sixteen-year sobriety served as an inspiration to those around him.
In 2004, he met the love of his life, Colleen Reardon, whose companionship was one of his greatest joys over the last fifteen years. Lew loved the outdoors and was a keen fisherman; he spent many summer days at Twin Lakes in Lakefield, CT, enjoying the company of friends and family on his boat.
In addition to his parents and loving partner, Colleen, Lew is survived by his stepdaughters, Abigail and Emily, as well as three brothers and sisters-in-law: Lee and Marsha of Enfield, CT; Kevin and Joyce of Norwalk, CT; and Glenn and Tammy of Port St. Lucie, FL. He also leaves behind many cousins, four nieces, two nephews, four grand-nieces, and three grand-nephews. Among the many longtime friends grieving Lew’s loss are Bill and Vanessa Millard, with whom Lew shared many joyful memories.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 16 at 2:00 p.m. at Newkirk-Palmer Funeral Home, 118 Main St, Canaan, CT 06018. Following the service, friends and family are invited to gather to celebrate Lew’s life at the Bitterman Center, 2 Daisy Hill Road, Canaan, CT.
Want to stay updated?
Get notified when new photos, stories and other important updates are shared.
Send flowers
Share your sympathy. Send flowers from a local florist to Lewis's family or funeral.
Memories & condolences
It has been many many years since I had seen Lew ----- knew him when we were both still very young children and I was h…
It has been many many years since I had seen Lew ----- knew him when we were both still very young …
It has been many many years since I had seen Lew ----- knew him …
David, Tom & Ellen are thinking of you all. Heartfelt sympathies are with you all. 😔❤️
David, Tom & Ellen are thinking of you all. Heartfelt sympathies are with you all. 😔❤️
David, Tom & Ellen are thinking of you all. Heartfelt sympathies…