Lewis Wayne Van Bebber

A blond-haired, blue-eyed boy entered this world in his own way, if not of his own accord, and much the same, he left it on his terms. Lewis wished for his life to hold meaning beyond the scope of his death, and so he donated his organs to help others in need. His passing leaves a huge hole in the hearts of those who entered his life. Louie amused - and sometimes frustrated - us with his contrary, stubborn, and cantankerous spirit. No one could be more determined and ornerier than Lewis when he was in the mood to be headstrong, and it seems that most people who knew him well have a story to that effect! But we were also blessed that he shared his generous, caring, and downright funny self with us, too. Lewis grew up in Kansas City, and it was there he learned to love horror movies, bowling, Worlds of Fun, barbecue, the Royals, and his beloved Chiefs. It was rare to see him in cold weather without a hat or jacket with the Chiefs logo. When Louie moved to Miami, Oklahoma, he had no idea he'd end up working at the Chevy dealership for forty-nine and a half years! Roger Michael became not only his boss but also a friend, mentor, and comrade. Roger still thinks of LouBob as his son, and we are forever grateful for thar relationship. Lewis had a knack for making strong friendships, and his own personal Dream Team is proof of that. John Bekemeier, Todd Fletcher, Danny Garner, and Bill Thompson formed the core of Louie's social group, and he was always happy when they would go out to eat, catch a ball game, or let him complain about the Royals! It may have seemed simple and small from the outside, but the strength of their friendship and depth of care for one another speak loudly to the power and quality of the bonds they had. "My little buddy Louie is gone," Pat Sills wrote when he heard Lewis had left us. Westco had been like a second home to Lewis and Pat, the largest part of that. One of the highlights of their friendship was going to an OU game together. Louie was happy to talk about the experience, but he told Pat he'd never go to another game. "Too many people!" Lewis was always comfortable and at home with family. He dearly loved children, and that became clear at the births of his nieces, Terrie and Dawn. By the time his sister Vickie's children, Nicole and Matthew, were born, he was an exceptional uncle, and he continued to become the best possible great uncle. Uncle Louie will always be loved and cherished by "his" kids. Lewis, when you were happy, you were HAPPY. When you were mad, well, we all certainly knew! You lived your life openly and honestly and on your own terms. Danny says you wouldn't ride with the guys anywhere unless you got to sit up front! You were always a character, and the world is a little duller after your loss. Thank you, brother of mine, for allowing us to be a part of your life on this earth. We can only hope we repaid you adequately for all the smiles, laughter, and love you gave to us.

Lewis Wayne Van Bebber

August 2, 1949 - June 15, 2023