SPRINGFIELD – Ethan Eric Lewis, age 59, died at St. John's Hospital on Tuesday, September 12, 2023.

He is pre-deceased by his mother, Eleanor Midman Lewis and sister, Rachel Lewis.

He is survived by his wife, Corrine Frisch; step-daughter, Dr. Nora Frisch; father, Michael Lewis of Northamton, MA; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Ethan grew up in Northampton, moving later to Boston where he attended Boston College, graduating first in his class.

Ethan was a retired Professor of Literature at the University of Illinois at Springfield, where he was beloved by students for twenty-two years. After graduating, Dr. Lewis came to Sangamon State University, later the University of Illinois at Springfield in 1993. He specialized in Shakespeare, early 17th century drama and early 20th century poetry. He was selected University Scholar in 1999, and he received the Pearson Award for distinguished teaching in 2007. He published several books of essays and poetry. In 2001, he coauthored a literary biography of mystery writer, Dorothy L. Sayers, with his good friend, Robert McGregor. It subsequently won the prestigious Edgar Award given by the Mystery Writers of America. He also taught potential college students under a program sponsored by the Illinois Humanities Council. He retired in 2021.

A Celebration of Life will be held on the UIS campus in the Student Union Ballroom from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, October 1, 2023. Friends and former students are welcome to attend.

To honor his dedication to UIS students, the Ethan Lewis Memorial Scholarship Fund has been created. If you are moved to do so, please donate, so his legacy at UIS can live on through his students.