TRAVERSE CITY — Lewis Nurnberger, 96, of Traverse City, formerly of Jackson, passed away Sunday, Dec. 25, 2011, at Bortz Health Care in Traverse City.Lewis was born on the family farm between Bear Lake and Benzonia on July 17, 1915, to the late Louie and Anna (Lettau) Nurnberger.Lewis answered the call of duty serving his country as a member of the United States Army during World War II.On Aug. 20, 1939, Lewis, entered into marriage with the former Marion Johnson, in her hometown of Manistee."Lew," as most would know him, started working for Consumers Energy as a lighting consultant in Manistee. In 1956 he was transferred to Traverse City, where Lew and Marion made their home for 11 years. In 1967, Lew was transferred to the main office in Jackson, where they lived for 42 years. Two years ago, Lew and Marion moved back to Traverse City to be near family.Lew was Exalted Ruler of the Elks Lodge in Manistee, and in 1967 became the State President. He also was able to serve as secretary to the Grand Exalted Ruler in 1981-82, as well as a Grand Tiler for the Grand Lodge. Lew was president of the Illuminating Engineer Society, presiding over several states.Lew could often be found golfing, truly making it a lifelong sport, even hitting the links well into his 90s. He enjoyed fishing and spent time with family and friends on the water. As Marion and Lew began retirement, Lew looked for good golfing weather and spent 21 winters in the Florida sunshine.Lew was a proud father and grandfather with an easygoing attitude. Lew's smile and devotion will be cherished by all who knew him.Lewis is survived by his loving wife of 72 years, Marion Nurnberger, of Traverse City; his son, James "Jim" (Linda) Nurnberger, of Traverse City; five grandchildren, Gregory (Natalie) McManeny, Michelle (Steven) Brett, Todd (Elizabeth) Nurnberger, Heather (Ryan) Watson and Rebecca Maddox; 11 great-grandchildren; and many other loving family members and friends.Lewis was preceded in death by his daughter, Pamela Schinderle; two sisters; a brother; and his parents.Visitation for friends and family will be held from 6 until 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 29, with an Elk's Memorial Service at 7 p.m., at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.Funeral services will take place at 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 30, also at the funeral home, with the Rev. Becky Chamberlain officiating. Graveside committal services will be at Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens.Memorial contributions may be directed to the Alzheimer's Association or the Elks Michigan Major Projects for Crippled Children.Please share thoughts with the family at www.reynolds-jonkkhoff.com.The family is being served by Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.