Dear Valued Patient,

Although you may already be aware, we are writing you today with very heavy hearts to formally inform you that our beloved Dr. Lewis passed away on October 5, 2021. His loss has been nearly impossible to accept and the love we have felt from our community of patients has helped carry us forward.

First and foremost, we would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support and loyalty through this heartbreaking time. Your words of comfort, cards, flowers, thoughtful gifts, and memories shared have truly touched our hearts. Whether our relationship with you is new or longstanding, our gratitude to you is equal. Your patience and kindness have allowed our family and our work-family time to grieve and gather our bearings on how to navigate through the next chapter of our practice that Dr. Lewis and his father, Ed Lewis, worked to build since it opened in 1975.

As our family began to explore the future of Steven E. Lewis DDS, we had several goals in mind that led us to a solution that we are proud of. We are grateful to extend a warm welcome to our dear friend and new owner, Dr. Richard Hardt.

Dr. Lewis and Dr. Hardt first met in grade school when Ed Lewis moved his family to Porterville to establish his dental practice. From that time forward, their friendship was solidified. Dr. Hardt’s presence has been a part of our family from the beginning and it brings us great comfort to see our two families come together to create a solution that honors Steve Lewis and will carry on his legacy.

Our shared goals for the future of our practice are:

• Continue to provide the excellent level of quality dental care that Dr. Lewis is committed to.
• Maintain our valued relationship with you and our exceptional work family.
• Preserve the legacy of the practice to welcome Dr. Lewis’ son, Jackson, when he graduates from Loma Linda University School of Dentistry in 2024 as it was always Steve’s greatest wish to work alongside his son.

We look forward to seeing you in the future as we will continue to be a part of the office to guide you through this transition. It is our most caring concern that you feel confident and comfortable in your choice to continue choosing our office for your dental care. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to call us directly at 559-783-3515 at any time.

With grateful hearts,

Sandy, Shelby, and Jackson Lewis