Lewis Permahos

Lewis “Lew” Permahos passed away on September 17, 2026, in Flemington, New Jersey, at the age of 92. He was born on December 18, 1933, in Brooklyn, New York, and lived a long life marked by hard work, patriotism, devotion to family, and a deep appreciation for history and community.

Lew began working at an early age as a delivery person to help support his family, a reflection of the sense of responsibility and sacrifice that would define his life. He later moved from Brooklyn to Queens, then to Chatham, New Jersey, and eventually to Hunterdon County, where he became a familiar and valued presence. For many years, he worked as a Union Cement Mason in New York and was part of the refabrication of the Brooklyn Bridge in the early 1980s. Over the years, he also took on many other jobs to support his family, always placing their needs before his own.

He served his country with pride as a Marksman in the United States Army, serving overseas in Korea from 1956 to 1958 during the Korean War. His love of country remained a central part of who he was throughout his life, and he was known as a true American patriot.

Lew was fearless, sharp-minded, and deeply independent. He spoke with quick wit and an unfiltered honesty that ensured everyone always knew where they stood with him. Despite a lack of formal education, he possessed a keen intellect and a lifelong love of learning. He enjoyed reading, especially world history, politics, philosophy, and classic poetry. He often watched documentaries on world events and enjoyed listening to marching band music or a talk-show on the radio. He also loved to travel, especially to places of historical significance such as Greece, Italy, and Egypt.

He always said, his favorite words were,”Hi Dad!” a reflection of the joyful relationship he had with his only daughter. Music, fellowship, and local tradition brought him great joy. He was a long-time member and drummer in the Sons of Liberty fife and drum corps, and he founded the Stockton Patriots many years ago with his grandchildren, creating memories and traditions that will endure. He was also a member of the "8:00 a.m. Crew" at the Sergeantsville General Store, where camaraderie and conversation were surely part of the routine he treasured.

Among the simple things that made Lew unmistakably himself were his ever-present supply of cough drops and his enjoyment of taking drives throughout Hunterdon County and the surrounding areas, admiring the beauty of the countryside. Above all, spending quality time with his grandchildren was among his favorite things. His proudest legacy was not only in the work he did or the causes he cherished, but in the care he gave to those he loved.

Lew was predeceased by his father, George Permahos; his mother, Anna Permahos; his three brothers and one sister and his wife, Eleanor Permahos, née Saieva. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Dineen and Todd Gruchacz of Stockton, New Jersey, his six grandchildren (and their spouses) and two great grandchildren, Teddy, Daniel (Taylor) and their daughter, Harper Layne, Bonnie (Daniel), Jon, Brooke, and T.J. (Bella) and their son, Todd III. He will be remembered with love for his strength, his humor, his convictions, and the steadfast way he took care of his family.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, New Jersey. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton RC Church, 105 Summer Road, Three Bridges, New Jersey. A graveside service with Military Honors will follow at 10:45 a.m. at St. Magdalen Cemetery, 86 North Main Street, Flemington, New Jersey.

Memorial contributions may be made in Lew's memory to the Hunterdon County Library, 314 State Route 12, Bldg. #3, Flemington, NJ 08822. For further information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.

Lew’s life was one of grit, loyalty, curiosity, and love. He leaves behind the memory of a man who worked hard, spoke plainly, loved deeply, and never lost his sense of pride in his family, his country, and the world around him.