NILES — Lewis G. Dodd, 91, quietly passed away in the early morning hours of Aug. 4, 2010, in the home of his devoted caregivers Manuel and Lydia Garza of Decatur.

Lew was born to Arthur and Fannie (VanNess) Dodd on March 9, 1919, in Howard Township. He was a lifelong resident of Pokagon Township.

On July 17, 194,  Lew married Charlotte Wells, his loving wife.

Seldom seen apart, their mutual love and companionship was clearly evident throughout their marriage and to all who knew them.

A tool and die maker by trade, Lew designed and made precision components for complex machines.

He also built the family home, hand-crafted and hand-carved furniture, picture frames and various styles of boats.

Lew owned and operated his own tool and die shop for many years before retiring to enjoy his other interests.

Lew was an avid outdoorsman, professional gunsmith and an accomplished violinist. He was also a gifted artist and painter throughout his life.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Lee, and his loving wife, Charlotte.

Lew will be greatly missed by his three sons; Jerry (Carol) Dodd of Commerce, Texas, Eldon (Kristine) Dodd of Middleville, Mich., and Braxton (Sharon) Dodd of Dowagiac; his two daughters, Elsie Loraine (George) Stewart of Spokane, Wash., and Lorinda (John) Walters of Plymouth, Wis.; 11 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

There will be a private family service for Lew, and the family will host a time of celebration in honor of him on Friday, Aug. 6, at Pokagon Methodist Church from 6 to 8 p.m.

In lieu of flowers the family is asking those wishing to make a memorial donation may do so to The Old Rugged Cross Foundation, P.O. Box 41; Niles, MI 49120 or Hospice of Southwest Michigan 801 Hazen St.; Paw Paw, MI 49120.

Online condolences, photos, or messages can be left for the family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com <http://www.brownfuneralhomeniles.com/>

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home and Mission Hills Memorial Chapel.