Lewis Gilkerson

Lewis Merrell Gilkerson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on January 16^th, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. He was born at home on June 13^th, 1938, in Clintonville, West Virginia. Lewis lived a fulfilling life, will be missed by all those who knew him, and is now in the arms of the Lord.

Lewis went to Williamsburg High School, where he graduated in 1956. After completing his education, Lewis worked with the Meadow River Lumber Company, then went to Charlotte, North Carolina to heavy equipment school. It was after he returned to West Virginia that he then hitch-hiked to Indiana, and subsequently met the love of his life, Sandra Bredy, on a double blind date. Drafted in the June of 1962, serving his country with honor as a member of the US Army for two years stationed at Fort Lee, Virginia and then Fort Hood, Texas. Briefly after being drafted, he married Sandra in the August of 1962. He was in the Indiana National Guard Unit until 1969.

Following his military service, Lewis returned to working at Hartman’s Asphalt and Paving Company. He then embarked on a successful career as a heavy equipment operator at Poindexter Excavating Inc. He was also a very proud member of the Local 103 Operators Union for 45 years. During the winters, he unloaded semis for Yellow Freight on the weekends, drove a dump truck for Macy Trucking, and frequently plowed snow, including during the Blizzard of 78’. He also helped to pioneer the night-paving we know today. He retired in December of 2000, but his work ethic continued for the rest of his life. Those who knew him know that Lewis was ‘on call’ for anyone who needed help, anytime.

Once he retired, he helped his four kids, whether it be helping out at Brown’s Garage or fishing with his family. He had an undeniable passion for tractors and enjoyed operating them. Lewis was also an avid fisherman, and participated in the Fishers of Men tournaments. Additionally, he spent countless hours working on projects in his barn. Lewis was also known for his large garden, and for his love of John Wayne and Westerns. He also dedicated much of his time to Woodside Community Church, first as a church bus driver, then a Deacon, then finally as a trustee.

Family meant everything to Lewis. He was a loving husband to Sandra, and together they shared many beautiful memories together, married exactly 61 ½ years. He was a devoted father to his children, which included Mac Gilkerson (Marlene), Andrew Gilkerson, Jennifer Frost, and Benjamin Gilkerson (Kelly). His devotion extended towards his grandchildren, including Justin, MacAna, Elle, Lydia, Bode, and Derby, all of whom he loved dearly.

Lewis was preceded in death by his sister, Medesta Phillips, as well as his father, Mack Gilkeson, and his mother, Betty Keene Gilkeson Viers. Although they are deeply saddened by their loss, Lewis’ surviving family takes comfort with the fact that he is now with the greatest Comforter of them all, the same Comforter he always told them to turn to in times of loss.

Funeral Service will be conducted by, Pastor Mark Petty  at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 20, 2024 at Woodside Community Church, 1811 S Morgantown Road Greenwood, IN 46142.  Visitation will be Friday, January 19th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Saturday, January 20th from 10:00 a.m. to time of service at 11:00 a.m. at Woodside Community Church.  Military honors will be held at Washington Park East Cemetery at 12:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Woodside Community Church Youth Fund, https://www.faithstreet.com/church/woodside-community-church-indianapolis-in-1/giving .