Lewis Eugene Ollison

Lewis Eugene Ollison, 90, passed away on April 23, 2026, at 5:51 a.m., surrounded by the family he loved.

Born on November 13, 1935, in Climax Springs, Missouri, to Alfred and Amanda-Elmore Ollison, Lewis grew up during the Great Depression and World War II, years that shaped his resilience and curiosity. His family moved often during his childhood, giving him an early sense of adventure and a lifelong appreciation for hard work.

After graduating high school, Lewis followed in the footsteps of his older brother Roy, a military veteran, by enlisting in the United States Army and serving proudly in the 101st Airborne Division. He was stationed in post-war Europe during the 1950s, an experience that broadened his world and deepened his sense of duty.

Upon returning home, Lewis studied electronics and soon opened his own television sales and repair shop in Eldon, Missouri. He was known for his skill, honesty, and innovation — including selling the very first color television in Eldon during the 1960s.

Lewis was married twice. His first marriage to Bonnie Sue Rippee in 1958 brought two children, Dwin and Teresea. That early chapter of his life helped form the beginnings of the family he cherished. In 1973, he married Vicki Lyn Ollison, with whom he shared 52 years of partnership, laughter, and devotion. Together they raised two sons, Troy and Kenneth.

In Eldon, Lewis discovered a passion that would define much of his life: flying. He earned his pilot’s license and later became a certified flight instructor, teaching countless students — including his own children — to take to the skies with confidence and joy. His love of aviation never faded.

In the 1980s, Lewis and Vicki purchased a farm outside Eldon, where they built a life rooted in family, work, and the simple pleasures of rural Missouri. They remained there until 2015, when they moved to Warrensburg to be closer to their children and grandchildren.

Lewis spent his final years doing what he loved most: rebuilding and flying airplanes, sharing time with his grandchildren, and cherishing every day with Vicki. His hands were rarely still, his mind always curious, and his heart steadfastly loyal to the people he loved.

Lewis is survived by his wife, Vicki; his four children — Dwin, Teresea, Troy, and Kenneth; six grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. His legacy lives on in the family he raised, the pilots he trained, and the many lives he touched with his generosity, humor, and quiet strength.

He will be deeply missed.

Graveside Services will be on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 10:00 AM at Climax Springs Cemetery in Climax Springs, MO with Rev. Dwin Ollison officiating.  Full Military Honors will be presented.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Phillips Funeral Home of Eldon, MO. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Lewis Eugene Ollison, please visit our floral store.