Paul Lewis, counselor at community college

Paul Lewis, 86, of Wyndmoor, a longtime counselor at Community College of Philadelphia, died Thursday, June 5, of complications from dementia at Gwynedd Square Nursing Center.

Mr. Lewis was born in Philadelphia and raised in Jenkintown. He enlisted in the Army Air Corps when he was 17, although induction took place a year later. After being honorably discharged, he attended Temple University on the G.I. Bill, earning a bachelor of science degree in business administration.

He worked in private industry and for the City of Philadelphia's Personnel Department for a total of 10 years. But, wanting to change careers, he returned to Temple to earn a master's degree in psychology.

He worked briefly as a counselor for B'nai B'rith Counseling Services before joining the counseling department at Community College of Philadelphia, where he remained for 36 years. "He loved every minute of it," his family said in a tribute.

Mr. Lewis served as head of the counseling department for part of his tenure, and was active in college placement, smoothing the transfer of the community college's students and their course credits to traditional four-year colleges. He retired at age 76.

His family said Mr. Lewis was a gifted photographer. He enjoyed listening to classical music, as well as bicycling, tinkering with cars, and taking trips in this country and abroad.

He is survived by his wife, Sandra Cutler Lewis; a son, Ethan; daughters Judy Hoffman and Sharon Bloomgarden; two grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Services were June 8.

Donations may be made to Community College of Philadelphia, 1700 Spring Garden St., Philadelphia 19130