Robert Michael (Mike) Lewis, 67, of Woodbridge, Virginia, died August 14, 2019, in the care of Halquist Memorial Inpatient Center in Arlington, Virginia after a long battle with metastatic melanoma. He was born March 23, 1952 in Auburn, New York, to the late Robert Post Lewis and late Margaret Mary Graney Lewis.
Mike attended ROTC at the University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, after which he was commissioned in the US Army and served as Military Intelligence officer until he entered Syracuse University School of Law, Syracuse, New York. After achieving his law degree, Mike was admitted to the Judge Advocate General (JAG) Corps. During his time in the JAG Corps, Mike had various legal assignments at locations throughout the Department of the Army. He was chosen to attend the Environmental Law program at George Washington University, Washington, DC, and ultimately specialized in that field. As a senior officer Mike received recognition as a consummate litigation attorney and often served as a mentor to attorneys entering the JAG Corps. He retired from military service as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1998 but continued his commitment to environmental law as a civilian Department of the Army Senior Litigation Attorney until 2014. Mike retired after forty years of dedicated government service in order to enjoy civilian life full time.
Mike was an adventurous traveler who took surfing and mountain biking trips to places like Ecuador, Morocco, and Mexico. He enjoyed fly fishing, mount bike riding, camping, and lounging on his back deck watching crew races on the Occoquan River. He was a loving husband, son, brother, uncle and loyal friend. His fellow officers and co-workers knew him to have an incredible legal mind and the utmost personal integrity. His passing will be felt by all that knew him. He is survived by his wife of forty-three years, Rosemary Slebodnik Lewis, brothers Charles Lewis of Skaneateles, New York, David Lewis of Homer, Alaska, Thomas Lewis of Auburn, New York and sister Ann Lewis Shaw of Auburn New York.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, September 5, 2019 at 11:00 A.M., at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 12807 Valleywood Dr., Lake Ridge, Virginia, followed by a reception in the church social hall. He will be inurned at Arlington National Cemetery at a future date. Mountcastle-Turch Funeral Home in Woodbridge, Virginia is overseeing funeral arrangements. Memorial donations can be made to ACTS (Action in Community Through Service) P.O. Box 74, Dumfries, VA 22026.
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Inspired by the devastating wildfires in California that have affected over 38,600 acres and led to evacuation orders for 88,000 residents as of Jan. 15, we reached out to Stafford County’s Fire and Rescue team to explore how they get ready for wildfires in this area.
A wildfire outbreak began in California on January 7, 2025 and continues as of Jan., 23. Over 47,000 acres have burned, with a new fire starting yesterday in Hughes County. Over 16,000 structures have burned due to wildfires in 2025.
Katie Brady, county fire department spokeswoman and Fire Life Safety Manager, clarified that “wildfire” is a broad blanket term. Stafford is likelier to experience “brush fires” than quick-moving wildfires that cause widespread destruction like California’s. Brushfires can range in size from a few feet to several acres and can be precursors to a larger wildfire capable of causing significant damage. Brushfires are more common when the area experiences drought conditions, like in 2024.
The disciplinary action taken against Patriot High School Principal Michael Bishop earlier this month is the latest chapter in a turbulent tenure at the school, Insidenova.com reports.
Bishop was placed on involuntary leave, the school announced Jan. 9.
The school division did not provide further details upon request from InsideNoVa because it is a “personnel matter,” said Diana Gulotta, the school system’s director of communications.
Fredericksburg police arrested Daquan Warren, 24, for a December 2024 shooting and investigated a January 20 shots fired and burglary incident on Townsend Boulevard. Stafford County saw assaults at Chatham Heights Road and North Stafford High School, a break-in on Ripley Road, and larcenies at Walmart, Buffalo Wild Wings, and an ABC store. In Prince William County, a strong-arm robbery on Balls Ford Road resulted in the arrest of Jose Fernando Martinez-Gonzalez. Authorities urge public assistance with investigations and provide tips hotlines for each jurisdiction.
Looking for a furry companion to brighten your days? Meet Harley, a 6 ½-year-old neutered male Domestic with short hair and a loving personality. Harley is ready to find his forever home and is available for adoption now.
Harley is waiting for you at the Spotsylvania County Animal Shelter. This local shelter is dedicated to finding loving homes for animals in need.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
