Carlton (Carl) Lewis

Carlton (Carl) Thomas Lewis, devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many, passed away peacefully at the age of 85. Born on July 11, 1940, in East Cleveland, Ohio, he was the third and youngest son of Hayden and Mary Lewis. From modest beginnings, Carl developed the work ethic, resilience, and optimism that would later define his life.

Carl attended Miami University, joining Phi Gamma Delta fraternity, and graduated with a business degree in 1962. During summers he worked aboard the S.S. Aquarama, where, in 1960, he met Carol Brunotts, from Lorain, Ohio, one of 90 college students also working on the ship. Their whirlwind courtship led to marriage on December 30, 1961, a partnership that would anchor and inspire him for the next six decades.

Following graduation, Carl began his professional career at TRW while pursuing graduate studies. Soon recognizing his aptitude for sales and leadership, he was recruited by Harris Corporation in 1970. He and Carol relocated to the San Francisco Bay Area, where Carl managed Harris’ San Francisco district.

Sensing both industry change and personal opportunity, Carl co-founded Graphics West in 1973. What began as a small office in Sausalito evolved into one of the country’s largest independent companies for the sale and support of large printing equipment. His entrepreneurial vision led to the development of the Microcut electronic control system for paper cutters, followed by Microcolor ink control systems and Microglue adhesive technologies. These innovations transformed quality and efficiency standards around the world and remain in use to this day.

Carl’s business interests expanded internationally, forging partnerships in Japan, Korea, China, and across Europe. In 1990, he sold Graphics West to Komori Corporation while continuing to build and later sell additional ventures, ultimately retiring in 2005.

Beyond business, Carl loved living on the waterfront of the Tiburon Peninsula, becoming an active member of the San Francisco Yacht Club in 1980. The community became central to his life, offering lasting friendships, cruises aboard Destiny, and years of committee service. In 1987, he served as Commodore, a role he carried out with pride and commitment.

Above all, Carl cherished his family. He and Carol began building their life together in Ohio and later in Marin County, California, raising two daughters, Laura and Jennifer. He often said that whatever success he enjoyed was made possible by Carol’s steadfast support and partnership.

Carl will be remembered for his entrepreneurial spirit, and unwavering devotion to those he loved.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Carol; his daughters Laura Lewis of Pleasanton, California, and Jennifer Powell (husband Mike Powell) of Mission Viejo, California; grandson Christopher Lewis Delameter of Rohnert Park, California; brother John Lewis of Santa Rosa, California, and innumerable extended family and friends.

At his request, a small family-only memorial service will be planned for a future date and his ashes scattered at sea.