Lewis “Lew” Richard Freitag II, age 73, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2026. He was born on September 14, 1952, in Cleveland, Ohio.

Lew proudly joined the United States Marine Corps in 1969 and served during the Vietnam War. He trained with the 3rd Recruit Battalion, Platoon 152, and attended Aviation School, where he specialized in aviation. Rising to the rank of Sergeant, he served with the 1st Marine Air Wing. He later continued his service in the United States Army and the Army National Guard, where he further developed his skills as a Tool and Die Precision Machinist.

His military career was distinguished by numerous commendations, including the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Air Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Presidential Unit Citation, and the Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation—each reflecting his courage, discipline, and unwavering sense of duty.

Following his military service, Lew continued the trade he learned while serving, building a respected career in the tool and die industry.  His skill, discipline, and insistence on excellence earned deep respect from those who trained alongside him and those he mentored. Many fellow veterans later sought him out simply to say, “Thank you—for the skills you taught me. They helped me survive.”

Lew’s interests included collecting coins, camping, and attending local gun shows. A true firearms enthusiast, he enjoyed gunsmithing as well as long-range and tactical shooting.

Lew is survived by his former spouse, Bonnie Freitag; his siblings Rose, Yolanda Martin, Paul, Sam (Sherri) Freitag, Veronica Lucarelli, Matt (Micayla) Martin, Faun, and Dawn; his children, Lewis (Elizabeth) Freitag III, Anna (Robert) Root III, Linda Freitag (Randy Huffman), Roberta Freitag, Patricia Freitag (John Hampton), and Katherine (Thomas) Smith; and his cherished grandchildren Audrey, Alyssa, Zander, Victoria, Jordan, Olivia, Jasmine, Gabriella, and Raymond.

A private memorial service was held on March 23, 2026, at 13:45 at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.