Father and Son Serve Canada in Two World Wars
The Lewis family of Kindersley embodies the sacrifice and service of Canadians across two world wars. Herman Humphrey Lewis and his son, Gilbert Allen Lewis, both answered their country’s call, leaving a lasting mark on their community and nation.
Click for larger images
Herman H. Lewis was born on April 13, 1893, in Salsbury, New Brunswick. He enlisted in the Canadian Expeditionary Force’s 55th Battalion on March 24, 1915, serving overseas in England and France during the First World War. For his service, Herman was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal.
Following the war, Herman returned to Canada on March 25, 1919, accompanied by his British bride, Mary Monica Inch of Torquay, England. The couple settled on a homestead south of Kindersley, where they built a life and raised four children: Allen, Dorothy, Stewart, and Grace. Herman remained an active community member, contributing to the Legion, St. Paul’s United Church, the Men’s Chorus, Kindersley Co-op, Saskatchewan Wheat Pool, and the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation. He was also honoured with a lifetime membership in the Kindersley Fish and Game League.
Their eldest son, Gilbert Allen Lewis, born in Kindersley in June 1921, followed in his father’s footsteps in service to Canada. After graduating from McKenzie School in 1939, Allen obtained his pilot’s license and enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force. He served with 640 Squadron of the Royal Air Force and later with RCAF Bomber Command.
Allen was killed in action on May 13, 1944, during a raid on Hasselt, Belgium. He is buried in the Haverlee War Cemetery near Leuven, Brabant, Belgium. At the time of his death, Allen was married to Anne Weir of Wish, Scotland, and they had a daughter, Margaret. His legacy endures in the naming of Lewis Falls on the Haultain River in Saskatchewan.
The story of Herman and Allen Lewis reflects the courage and commitment of generations of Canadians who served in both world wars. Their dedication to country and community continues to inspire, reminding all of the sacrifices made for freedom.