Pete Lewis, long-time Thrush test pilot, passes

'-Guyton- Mr. Daniel R."Pete" Lewis Jr., 68, went to his eternal resting place on Friday, September 23, 2016, at his residence surrounded by his loving family and friends.
Pete volunteered for service in the United States Army in 1969, completed basic helicopter flight training at Mineral Wells, Texas, in 1969 and advanced flight training in Fort Rucker, Alabama in 1970. After completion of flight training at Ft. Rucker, he was transferred to Vietnam SEA. He flew in excess of 1,000 hours in a combat environment. Mr. Lewis was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for Extraordinary Achievements while participating in aerial flight, evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty, the Air Medal with Seven Oak Leaf Clusters for combat assault flights, and the Army Commendation Medal for Meritorious Services in support of military combat operations. He also was awarded the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with a Bronze Star device and Silver Star device. He ended his career in the army by service in the Georgia Army Air Guard from 1971 to 1981.
Employed by Ayres Aircraft Manufacture in Albany, Ga, Pete was both a Senior Test Pilot and Senior Marketing Executive. Then from 2001 until his death, he worked for Flight Safety as an Instructor Pilot and Flight Safety Certifier.
He was an avid sailor and hunter. For pleasure, Pete's greatest enjoyment came from camping alone or with friends. His most favorite camping spots were Carrabelle, Florida and Tybee Island, Georgia.
He is survived by: companion, Deborah Hayes; 3 four-legged children, Molly, Lily Grace and Daisy; adopted children, Mike Biggans (Angela) of Statesboro, Eric Thompson (lacey) of Guyton, and Jason Thompson of Brooklet; sister. Sandra Fisher (Larry) of Dallas. Ca: brother, Dean lewis (Debra) of Albany, Ga; several adopted grandchildren; a number of nieces and nephews; and numerous friends.
Visitation will be held at Riggs Funeral Home on Tuesday. September 27, from 5 -7 p.m. with services to follow at 7 p.m. in the Ben Wages Chapel of the funeral home.
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