Lewis Holmes Raker
Lewis Holmes Raker, of Iron River, Mich., died Feb. 7, 2025, at his home following illness.
He was 78.
He was born in Philadelphia, PA in 1946, to Frederick L. Raker and Helen Holmes Hallock.
Mr. Raker graduated from The Lawrenceville School in 1964 and from Washington and Lee University in 1968 where he was a member of Delta Tau Delta. That same year, Lewis finished U.S. Naval Officers' Candidate School.
Mr. Raker then served in the U.S. Navy from 1968- 1971 including the Vietnam War, Honorably Discharged a lieutenant, and awarded two medals.
Mr. Raker married Mary Lou Raker, and their daughter Katharine was born in 1974.
In 1975, he earned a master's degree in Hospital Administration from The George Washington University.
Mr. Raker was involved in social service organizations, a foster parent, volunteer tutor, supporter of the Eisenhower Foundation and other groups working to preserve history and historical monuments. He also was a volunteer officer of his lake association. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, traveling and spending time with his grandchildren, family and friends.
Mr. Raker is survived by his wife, daughter and four grandchildren.
A funeral service will be Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Gaffney-Busha Funeral Home in Eagle River, WI. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Reception immediately following at the Chanticleer Inn.
Gaffney-Busha Funeral Home in Eagle River is serving the family.
