…active in auto racing; 78
TEWKSBURY - Lewis Rivers, age 78, well known in the auto racing circuit for over five decades, died peacefully on Friday morning, August 16, at the Blaire House of Tewksbury.
He was born in Sturbridge, in 1934, a son of Allie and Doris (Brandeen) LaRivier. and lived the greater part of his life in the Lowell and Tewksbury area.
He worked at Tewksbury Auto Parts and Tewksbury Metals, and later retired as a yardman at the Holt and Bugbee Company, a lumber distributor in Tewksbury, for after more than 25 years of service.
Lew’s passion during his lifetime was auto racing. He began racing “Flathead Coupe’s,” and over a lifetime raced or crewed for every class between Street to Big Block Super Modified. Lewis was a familiar face at racetracks from Sandusky, Ohio, to Oxford, Maine, and most oval tracks in New England. He will be remembered for his personal warmth, his friendly smile, and his ability to entertain friends with stories about people and tales of his remarkable racing career.
Lewis leaves friends throughout New England, friends at the Bunting Club and Hines’ Tavern, and his dearest friends, three generations of the Olson family of Tewksbury.
Visiting hours were held Monday, August 19. Memorials to the Blaire House, Activities Fund, 10 Erlin Ter., Tewksbury, MA 01876, will be appreciated.