Newton resident Lewis "Barrick"
Wilson had his hand in many pots around the community or, perhaps
more fittingly, you could say his fingers plucked several strings.
One of the founders of the Newton
Ukulele Tunes Society and a volunteer with several different
organizations in the city, Wilson's recent passing will certainly be
felt around the community. While he will be missed, it is not likely
his impact will soon be forgotten.
"He was always ready to volunteer
for anything that he saw a need for in our community and he did it
with joy in his heart," said president of the Grand Central
board of directors Betty Lanzrath. "I think everyone that came
across Barrick probably learned about volunteering and trying to give
back to the community."
Lanzrath served with Wilson on the
board of directors at Grand Central, but the former noted Wilson also
took part in many of the activities offered by Grand Central. That,
coupled with his service to several other organizations and groups
around town, led to Wilson knowing almost everyone who walked through
the building's doors and contributed to his engaging personality.
"He was just generally a cheerful
man who found a connection with anybody that he came across,"
Lanzrath said.
Carriage Factory Gallery director Cindy
Snider can attest to that, too, as Wilson served on the board of the
directors for the gallery and supported it both with his words and
with monetary donations. Additionally, Snider noted Wilson would come
in once a week and play piano at the gallery, which she noted was a
small part of his ability to help people enjoy the moment.
"He was such a people person and
connected well with all types of people. He just took the time to
listen to people and be present with them and I think that was one of
his great gifts," Snider said. "We will remember him always
fondly."
On top of all of his volunteering,
Wilson served as the marketing director at Newton Medical Center for
seven years before retiring in 2011. Prior to that, he held similar
positions with several businesses in the Wichita area.
Wilson (born July 22, 1944) grew up in
the suburbs of Kansas City and eventually graduated from Shawnee
Mission North High School in 1962. He then graduated from Kansas
State University in 1974 before diving into his career in
communications and marketing. He is survived by his wife, Kristi, of
nearly 50 years. Arrangements for Wilson's funeral will be published
as soon as they are received.
