Obituary of Oscar M. Levis

Let us first be as simple and well as Nature ourselves, dispel the clouds which hang over our brows and take up a little life into our pores. Do not stay to be an overseer. but endeavor to become one of the worthies of the world. Henry David Thoreau said "I went to the woods because I wished to learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived." It was here that Oscar Levis believed his spirit would dwell and be at peace after his passing. On Wednesday February 1, 2012 Oscar started on his final journey to spend eternity in the woods he loved. Mr. Levis was born in the Pittsburgh coal region in Bakerstown, PA and was one of 9 children. Oscar worked in the coal mines until he left home to defend his country in the U.S. Army as a Medic, Private First Class, serving in the U.K. during WWII. Upon returning home he married a local girl Dorothy Jeitner and settled in the Gloucester Twp area where he worked and became an accomplished bricklayer. He built his own home and made a 40 year career as a member of the International Union of Bricklayers & Allied Craft Workers, Local 5, Bordentown. Oscar was a true spirit who appreciated life's simple pleasures and always had a positive outlook and a kind word for others. He demonstrated a strong work ethic and faithfully supported and raised his family. He had been a member of the Blackwood VFW Post 7927 and had served as Post Quarter Master. At home he enjoyed wood carving, telling stories and reminising of his youth and friends. It was in the woods where Oscar felt most connected and at peace.. He loved to hunt, go mushroom picking and hike along with his family.. If you took the strength of a mountain, the warmth of the sun and the generous soul of nature and combined these qualities you'd call it DAD. Mr. Levis is survived by his wife of 61 years, Dorothy; his daughter Verna Levis and her partner Allan, her son Jason and wife Marybeth, and her son Jacob and partner Missy and and their son Mason; daughter Roberta & her husband John Hare and their children Maris & John; daughter Audrey & her husband Robert Hannum; and daughter Lorraine Levis and partner Russ and her sons Austin & Preston. Mr. Levis is also survived and will be sadly missed by his sister Emma Sarlo, his niece Janet Levis and friend Chuck Homenic. Funeral services and inurnment will be held privately. As an expression of sympathy and in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Deborah Heart & Lung Center 200 Trenton Rd. Browns Mills, NJ 08015. Condolences may be sent in care of: Hare, P.O. Box 8260, Turnersville, N.J. 08012.