Oceana County is mourning the July 6 loss of Cindy Lewis, the beloved visionary behind Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo in New Era.
The Lewis Farms Team posted the following statement on their Facebook page, July 7: "We are heartbroken to confirm the tragic passing of our beloved co-owner, Cindy Lewis, in an incident that occurred onsite while the farm was closed to the public. Cindy was not only a cherished leader of Lewis Farms, but also a devoted wife, mother and friend to so many in our community. Her sudden loss is devastating beyond words.
"To those who have reached out with kind words, stories and cherished memories of Cindy, thank you. Your messages have brought comfort in this dark time and have helped keep Cindy’s memory alive in the most beautiful way. She touched countless lives, and the love being shown in her honor is a reflection of the incredible person she was. We are grateful for the outpouring of support from our community. Please join us in continuing to honor Cindy’s life by treating one another with the same kindness, grace and dignity that she so effortlessly shared with the world.
"The Lewis family, our staff and everyone who knew and loved Cindy are experiencing profound grief. This is an incredibly painful time for multiple families, and we ask for space, compassion and respect as they navigate this unimaginable loss together. Out of respect for the family and the integrity of the official investigation, we will not be commenting further at this time."
A July 7 media release from the Oceana County Sheriff's Office provided further details: On Friday, July 4, 2025 at 7:46 a.m., deputies received a call for a personal injury accident (at) Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo for a report of a person who had been struck by a vehicle.
The accident involved business owner Cindy Lewis, a 56-year-old female, (who) suffered multiple injuries and later died at Trinity Health in Ann Arbor July 6, 2025. (The) driver of the vehicle was a 61-year-old New Era woman, who was also an employee at Lewis Adventure Farm. The original caller to Mason-Oceana 911 told dispatchers that a person had been struck by a vehicle and was still trapped under it.
When deputies arrived on scene, they found the victim had been extricated from under the vehicle, and rescue personnel were attending to her injuries. Mrs. Lewis was transported by Life EMS to Trinity Health-Muskegon (and) later airlifted to Henry Ford Hospital-Detroit.
"We do not believe alcohol or drugs to be any factor in this accident. Deputies conducted a thorough investigation of the accident and driver involved," Undersheriff Ryan Schiller stated. "It appeared as if the driver of the vehicle didn’t see Mrs. Lewis as she was entering the parking lot. The incident and investigation will be turned over to the Oceana County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for their review.
"Mrs. Lewis was a positive, energetic pillar of our community, integral in the continued growth and development of the family business. We extend our deepest sympathy to the entire Lewis family. This is a tragic loss for our community, and we know that this tragedy will affect not only our community but many others. Please keep the Lewis family in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate these difficult days."
The release also listed that those responding to the scene were the Shelby-Benona Fire Department, Life EMS and the sheriff's office was assisted by Mason-Oceana 911.
Later on Monday, the Lewis Farms Team posted an additional statement on their Facebook page: "It's impossible to fully express what Cindy Lewis meant to Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo - she was the very heart of the adventure. Cindy poured her soul into every aspect of the farm, from caring deeply for the animals to generously sharing her infectious spirit with employees and guests alike.
"Second only to the love she had for her family was the joy she found in working alongside them to build Lewis Farms. Through her vision and unwavering dedication, a humble roadside fruit stand blossomed into a beloved zoo and agritourism destination.
"Cindy's joy could be felt in every corner of the farm. On busy days, she cheerfully bounced from task to task, lending a hand wherever it was needed. On quieter ones, she could be found visiting her cherished animals and checking in with staff. Her generosity was boundless - perhaps her most remarkable trait. Few have given so freely, so often, and so thoughtfully to those they loved. From unexpected gifts and treats to joyful celebrations, Cindy made everyone feel seen, valued, and cared for.
"While most people build routines around themselves, Cindy's days were centered on her animals, her family, and her friends. She was selfless, kind, and radiant in all she did.
"To say she will be missed is a profound understatement. Lewis Farms will never be the same without her. Yet we know she would want us to carry on, to work hard, and to continue bringing joy to the families who visit. Her legacy will live on in every smile, every laugh, and every shared moment at the farm she so dearly loved."
