Lewis Chalfant Ketcham passed away on December 27 with his wife, Barbara, by his side. He now joins his parents, Margaret and Doyle, who preceded him on this journey. Lew was born in Leavenworth, Kan. in 1948 and maintained many strong and lifelong friendships. He graduated in 1971 from William Allen White School of Journalism at the University of Kansas and received his Masters Degree from the American University School of Journalism. His career as a broadcast journalist started in Wichita, Kan. which led him to Washington, D.C. in 1977 as the press secretary for Dan Glickman, a newly elected member to the House of Representatives.But Lew was most proud of his work and association for 30 years with C-SPAN.

A lifelong learner, Lew was interested in history, science, but most passionately, music. He was that unassuming bass player in his high school and college bands and even into his happy middle-aged years playing with “Sweet Lew and the Jayhawks”. He took beautiful photos and was a wonder on the dance floor.

But his greatest joy was his family. He was the “Bonus Dad” to Tara Elizabeth Guenthner (Hipp) and Thomas Ryan Hipp and was embraced into their two wonderful families. Leaving behind are also Michael Anthony Guenther, Sr., Karin Hipp (Knight) and his beloved grandsons Michael Anthony Guenthner Jr, Hayden Hipp Guenthner, Jackson Ryan Hipp and Samuel Knight Hipp. Lew was known to all as “Sweet”.

We will miss his gentle guidance, his humor and his love, but know that his battle with Parkinson’s is finally put to rest and he is at peace. Donations may be made in Lew’s honor to: the Michael J. Fox Foundation give.michaeljfox.org.