Lewis L. Bayley

Lewis L. Bayley, 92, passed away on December 31, 2013 in his home surrounded by his loving children. He was born in Heralds Prairie, Illinois. As a youth he was raised on a farm and as a young man acquired his own land. During WWII he joined the Navy. His ship was sunk in the south Atlantic. He was injured during this attack by a German U-boat and received a Purple Heart Medal. He married his sweetheart, Beatrice (Bea) Narup, while stationed in New Orleans. After the war they returned to Illinois. Due to Bea’s health they moved to Arizona in 1950. He held several jobs before joining the Meat Inspection Department for the State of Arizona. He retired from this position in 1983. They had 6 children: Nancy, Mary Lou, Brenda, Debbie, John, and Cathy. They were blessed with 11 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren with another two on the way. Bea and Brenda proceeded Lewis in death. Lewis truly enjoyed fishing and for many years he and Bea traveled to Idaho to Nancy’s home for the summer where he was able to enjoy this passion. He played poker with a group of friends and continued that activity later in life. Lewis and his family were always musical and would sing together when the occasion arose. In his later life he learned to enjoy karaoke and even closed down a few karaoke bars while in his late 80’s. Lewis always had a quick smile and was loved by many. Many thanks to the fantastic care he received in Prescott at Alta Vista. The love and care he received there was exceptional.