of West Memphis, AR

August 8, 1930 - January 9, 2022

Lewis Elves Bastel, born on August 8, 1930 of West Memphis, AR departed from this earth Sunday, January 9, 2022 at Alive Hospice in Murfreesboro, TN. He is preceded in death by his parents, Lewis and Irene Bastel and his wife of 44 years, Dolores Bastel.

Those left to cherish his memory are his son, Michael (Kellye) Bastel of Austin, AR; his daughter Melissa (Tommy) Ward II of Spring Hill, TN; his granddaughters Peyton (Trey) Little of Roswell, GA, Jillian Ward and Natalie Ward, both of Spring Hill, TN; his sister Peggy Ann Barlow of Piggott, AR and brother, Jerry (Linda) Bastel of Paragould, AR; his brother-in-law, Jerry Bobeck of West Memphis, AR. He also leaves behind his beloved cat ''Tigah''; nieces, nephews and a multitude of very special friends.

After graduating at Pleasant Plains High School, Lewis joined the United States Air Force and served in the Korean War. He loved his country and was the definition of patriotism. He spent his civilian career in the automotive industry and retired from Bluff City Buick. Upon returning from the war, he married Dolores Allene Bobeck. Lewis was a devoted father and genuinely loved being a ''Daddy.'' He was equally dedicated to his role as ''Pap'' and never missed an opportunity to brag on his favorite girls.

While he was a proud grandfather and undoubtedly shared pictures if you encountered him, he spent a great deal of time taking care of all the stray cats of West Memphis. He would appreciate your efforts in continuing to feed these kitties if you are in the area. Lewis was a licensed pilot and lover of all things aviation, you could find him at the airport most any given day. In fact, for 14 years he served on the Airport Commission and was instrumental in many improvements that were made. Also in his spare time, he enjoyed spending time with fellow veterans at the VFW where he was commander in chief for multiple terms in his younger days.

A time of gathering will be held on Thursday, January 13, 2022 from 10:30am until 12:00pm and the service will begin at 12:00pm at the Roller Citizens Funeral Home, West Memphis, AR. Interment immediately following at Crittenden Memorial Park.
Memorial donations can be made to the West Memphis Animal Shelter to honor Lewis' passion for the four legged friends.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Citizens Funeral Home
201 North Pine Street
West Memphis, AR  72303
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com