Lew W. Counts, 50, Minot, died Thursday, February 26, 2009, in his home.

Lew was born February 20, 1959, in Butte, Montana, the son of Lawrence and Ellen (Nelson) Counts. Following his formal schooling he joined the United States Marines, serving from August 2, 1976 until his honorable discharge on August 1, 1979 attaining the rank of Lance Corporal.

He returned to Souris to assist on the family farm for a time. Lew gained employment in Williston working in the oil fields holding various positions for a number of years. He returned to Minot in the mid 1990's and was recently employed by Minot State University in the Dietary Department.

He will be deeply missed by all who shared in his life.

Surviving family includes: Son: Robert James Counts of Montana; Mother: Ellen Ann Counts of Souris; Sisters: Lisa Haas, St. John, ND; Alice Counts, Rolla, ND, and Melony (Roger) Higdon, Minneapolis, MN; Brothers: Darcy Counts, Bottineau, Jeff Counts, New Mexico, Timothy Counts, Souris, ND, and Jared Counts, Fargo, ND; seventeen nieces and nephews and thirteen great-nieces and nephews.

Lew was preceded in death by his father and infant son, Wesley.

Funeral: Monday, March 2, 2009, at 7:30 p.m. at Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.
Visitation: A book signing will be held Monday, from 3:00 p.m. until the start of the service.