Lewis Setzer
Oct. 7, 1942 – April 18, 2025
Lewis Wilbur Setzer, 83, of Sweet Home, passed away on April 18, 2025, in Salem.
He was born Oct. 7, 1942, in Valliant, Okla., the son of Lois (Earthman) and Edwin Setzer. He was raised with his brother, Fred. Lewis and his family enjoyed fishing together on the rocks in Yachats on the Oregon Coast.
Lewis graduated from Sweet Home High School in 1962, an achievement made even more remarkable by his dedication to working three jobs at the same time – service station attendant, Giles Mill worker, and employee at a local feed store.
This relentless drive and commitment to supporting himself and his family demonstrated his steadfast character and unwavering determination.
He met Sharon Lee Stone and they married on June 3, 1967. They celebrated nearly 58 years of marriage and were blessed with two sons, Edwin and Grady.
Following high school, Lewis answered the call to serve his country. He was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and stationed in West Germany, where he served honorably. Upon completing his military service on Jan. 12, 1971, he returned home and built a career rooted in hard work and perseverance.
He spent 30 years as a logger with Pyramid Timber before transitioning into construction with Emery & Sons, followed by Concrete Enterprise.
In 2007, Lewis embraced a well-earned retirement, during which he enjoyed woodworking in his shop and spending quality time at home with Sharon.
Outside of work, Lewis found joy in life’s simple and fulfilling pleasures. He was an avid outdoorsman, spending time hunting and fishing in the Santiam Canyon area, and was a skilled woodworker, crafting pieces with care in his shop. His greatest pride, however, was his family. He was a dedicated father, never missing an opportunity to attend his children’s sporting events.
Lewis had an incredible gift for connection – he never met a stranger and possessed a rare ability to engage in genuine conversation with anyone. His kindness, humor, and welcoming nature made every interaction memorable, leaving a lasting impact on those lucky enough to know him.
He is survived by his wife, Sharon Lee Setzer; children Edwin Lee Setzer and his wife Maria, and Grady Lewis Setzer and his wife Julie; and six grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Fred Setzer.
A celebration of his life with military honors will take place on at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 17, at Weddle Funeral Service 1777 N. Third Ave., Stayton. Private interment will take place at Fox Valley Cemetery in Lyons.
Memorial contributions can be made to Traditions Health Hospice: 2290 Commercial St SE #108, Salem, OR, 97302.