Major (Retired) Perri Richmond Lewis

November 25, 1961 – July 7, 2023 (age 61)

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Perri Richmond Lewis, 61, of Victoria Vale, Nova Scotia on Friday, July 7, 2023.

After graduating from Middleton Regional High School in 1979, Perri joined the Canadian Armed Forces where he trained and served as a helicopter pilot, his first posting to 408 Squadron at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Edmonton.  While flying with the Army, his trusted abilities earned him the honour of flying many dignitaries including the Pope, members of the British Royal Family, US Vice President, Canadian Prime Minister, and other members of Parliament.  His skills also earned him a key role with the implementation of Night Vision Goggles.  This same professionalism was instrumental when Perri lead the aircraft conversion program from the Twin Huey to Griffon helicopter.  Other operational duties included search and rescue, flood relief and firefighting.

Perri was also a global peacekeeper and took part in the Multinational Force & Observers with two tours in the Sinai Peninsula (1986-1990).  Followed by 2 United Nations tours to Haiti.  While much of Perri's military time was attached to flying & training, he also holds the distinction of a ground tour which took him and his family to Colorado Springs, CO, USA during operation Desert Storm, working in the North American Aerospace Defense Command's (NORAD) missile warning center.

In 1997 Perri's last posting was to CFB Shearwater where he transitioned to the Sea King helicopter and worked in collaboration with the Navy.  During sea deployments, he served in several key roles including search and rescue, reconnaissance, and a tour aboard the destroyer, Iroquois, on patrol for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

He will be most remembered for his proficiency, approachability, and the ability to bring out the best in his students through strong communication.

In 2000, Perri transitioned to the offshore oil and gas industry, flying in the Falkland Islands, Malaysia, Benin, Gabon, Uruguay, and Brazil.  Additionally, Perri facilitated flight training simulators in Scotland, Norway, and Sweden, as well as holding the test & standards position for the Civil Aviation Authority of the Cayman Islands.

For all his military and civilian accomplishments, Perri was most proud of his family, friends, and time 'puttering' on Ingrich Farms.  Retiring in 2015, he honed his green thumb from simply growing the best highbush blueberries around to adding many other fruits & vegetables supported by his construction of two greenhouses, to the delight of all of us around him.

Those who had the privilege of knowing Perri knew that he was a kind, patient, and generous man who was always willing to lend a hand.  He could be found plowing driveways for his neighbours, lending out equipment or just helping you in a way that you most needed.  They will also know and remember that undeniable twinkle in his eyes that made you feel seen and part of a joyous secret club or wondering what wee mischief he was up to.  Perri made life more fun for all of us.  Perri treasured his time with his family and friends and loved to cook, hunt, host a good bonfire and ride his ATVs when he had some free time.

Perri is survived by his wife, Jacqueline (nee Arendz); his two children, Jonathan Lewis, FO (Danielle), Tantallon, NS and Dr Stefanie Lewis, DO (Naunie), Freeport, ME, USA; mother Wilma Jean Brown, Nictaux; grandchildren: Brynne, Brock, and Willa Lewis: brothers, Dave Lewis (Leona), Jeff Lewis (Christine), John Lewis (Nancy); and sister, Tracy Ward (Mike); and many nieces and nephews.  He is predeceased by his father, William Dalton Lewis.

The family wishes to thank all of the Doctors, nurses and support staff of Valley Regional Hospital Oncology Department, Kentville, NS, for their kindness during his final days.  Family would also like to thank Dr. Cathryn Smith (family doctor) and the wonderful teams from Continuing Care, VON, Palliative Care, and MAiD.

In keeping with his wishes, cremation has taken place.  A celebration of life will be planned for a later date.  In honour of his memory, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Middleton Funeral Home, 398 Main Street, toll free 1-855-825-3448.  Online guestbook may be signed by visiting: www.middletonfuneralhome.com