Lewis R. Hess

Lewis Ralph Hess was born August 25, 1945, in Des Moines, Iowa to George and Clara (Wilson) Hess. He was raised in the Des Moines area and proudly served in the United States Army after high school. Lewis worked in the construction trade as a welder, lastly for Fawn Engineering prior to his retirement.

Lewis loved his family and spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He enjoyed fishing in his free time. Lewis was a sports fan and especially liked watching boxing, baseball and football. He was grateful for his faithful companion, Bella.

Lewis passed away peacefully at home with family on Monday, February 23, 2026, at the age of 80.

He is survived by his wife, Julia; children: Donna Johnson (Tony), Diana Fisher, Dustin Wedlund (Lara), and Cayden West; seven grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; and his sisters, Beverly and Shirley.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Clara Hess; daughter, Deborah Mercer; several sisters and brothers; and his dog, Bella.

All services will be held on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed immediately by funeral service at 12:00 p.m., at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines. Burial with military honors will take place at 2:00 p.m. at Iowa Veterans Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Print