Richard Lewis “Lew” Worthem, age 78, passed away at his home in Butte Friday morning January 29, 2021.
Lew was born in Chicago, Illinois June 19, 1942 to James and Mary (Walton) Worthem. He received his education in Chicago. Lew served in the United States Army for a period of three years in Korea from September 29, 1959 to December 19, 1962.
Returning from military service, Lew joined his father in construction trade work business as a tile setter on walls and floors. In the year of 1967 Lew married Linda Nazimek, they had one daughter, Deborah. They divorced in 1983.
Lew married Kim White in Aurora Illinois August 5, 1985. They established and owned a small business called Weedbusters in Aurora, providing lawncare and weed control to many customers.
In 1996, Lew partially retired and moved to Butte Montana, later to be followed by Kim in 1998. They later divorced but remained good friends.
Lew was also a master craftsman and mechanic. He was known to be strong willed, very empathetic towards others and lovingly stubborn. Lew was a friend of Bill’s here for 37 years. He was an avid reader, enjoyed camping and construction work.
Lew was preceded in death by his parents, James and Mary Worthem; brother, Mark Worthem and stepson, Michael White.
Lew is survived by his partner, Kim Worthem of Arizona; daughter, Deborah (David) Fleming; brothers, James (Barbara) Worthem and Dean (Karen) Worthem, grandchildren, Nicholas and Rebecca Fleming, Brittany and Dylan White, and Meadow-Rae Estrup (“Boo”), his pride and joy ; great grandchildren, Lily, James, Aayla, Kaitryn and Arlee and his dear friend Miles Finlen of Butte.
Memorials in Lew’s name are suggested to Butte Alano Club, 721 Utah Avenue Butte, Montana 59701.
Please visit below to offer a condolence or share a memory of Lew.
Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Lew and his family.
KIM Worthem says
There are just no words. You fought the good fight your whole life. Job well done. You will be missed. I’m glad I could be there for you in the end.
Veronica Catalano says
To my wonderful cousin. Your smile and spirit was like a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day. Thank you for your beautiful words and cards when my mom was battling cancer. I loved the times I spent with you. You were a deep thinker, with a kind heart and strong faith. We will always treasure how special you made us feel. You truly were a gift.May you Rest In Peace. Love Ronnie and Len Catalano
Vickie Sue Takats says
I remember when he lived next door to my Mom, he took all my kids on a ride on a motorcycle he bought. My kids still talk about this when they remember going to Grandma’s house. We missed him when he moved but he always stayed in touch with my Mom & was a good man who always made time for anyone who needed help. He was a helper. All my family prays for: Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, & the perpetual light shine upon him.
Maybe he Rest In Peace & May God give strength & comfort to his family.
Maria Worthem says
We were saddened to hear of Uncle Dick’s passing. He was a wonderful person and we will always remember him fondly.
Jeff & Maria Worthem & Family
Barbara Worthem says
Kim and Debbie.
Jim and I were very saddened to hear about Dick’s passing. We’ve always enjoyed his cards and phone calls. Kim, it must have been such a comfort for him, that you were with him at his time. He will always be in our thoughts.
Barbara & James Worthem