Richard Craig Lewis

Richard Craig Lewis, 67, of Two Rivers, Wisconsin, passed away at his home on October 2, 2025. Born on April 6, 1958, in El Paso, Texas, Richard was the son of Ann and Roswell Lewis. He grew up in Kearny, New Jersey, attended Queen of Peace High School, and later studied at Kean College, Winona State University, and St. John’s University, graduating summa cum laude from Tidewater Community College.

Richard devoted his life to helping others - not only as a physical therapist, but as a friend, mentor, and advocate for those in need. Over more than three decades, he practiced physical therapy with heart and humor - whether at Lewis Physical Therapy in Austin, Minnesota, Northern Iowa Physical Therapy in Waverly, or as a traveling clinician across Texas, Wisconsin, and Florida. His gift for healing extended beyond the clinic: he served as an EMT, trained athletes as a track coach and minor league baseball trainer, mentored high school students, and helped build a new generation of therapists as a clinical instructor and advisory board chair. He was the kind of man who would show up at any hour to help anyone in need - whether body or spirit.

An avid outdoorsman, Richard found joy and calm in nature: trout fishing the streams of southeastern Minnesota, salmon fishing on Lake Michigan, or canoeing the Boundary Waters. He often led friends, family, and adventurous acquaintances on fishing trips, and those who made it back said it was an unforgettable experience.

With a cigar lit and sleeves rolled he could just about fix anything - from engines to hems and even political arguments on NPR. He also loved playing sports including varsity football, volleyball, frisbee, and was a Minnesota State Champion in darts.

Richard’s intellect was matched by his wit. He loved storytelling, jokes, and building deep connections with many. Music was his constant companion, and his encyclopedic taste ranged from the Grateful Dead and Bruce Springsteen to Tom Waits, John Prine, and Talking Heads.

He is survived by his son, Drew Lewis of Montclair, New Jersey; daughter, Brooke Tracey of Rye, New York; brothers, Michael, Bruce (predeceased), Gary, Ross, Robert, and Greg Lewis; and five grandchildren, Elizabeth Tracey, Aidan Tracey, Simone Lewis Yu, Finley Tracey, and Rose Lewis Yu.

Richard will also be remembered by his cherished dog Roxy, his many nieces and nephews, and the countless friends and patients whose lives he brightened.

A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, from 4:00 to 6:30 p.m. at Worlein-Hoff Funeral Home in Austin, Minnesota. In lieu of flowers, the family simply asks that you join them in sharing stories, laughter, and memories in Richard’s honor.

Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes of Austin are assisting the family with arrangements.