After retiring from the navy, Captain Bill Lewis set out to help young people find a personal relationship with Jesus Christ through the game of golf. Known to many thousands of people as Captain Bill, his vision was to make a difference. By making Jesus the captain of his own soul, Bill allowed the love of God to spill over into the lives of thousands of young people. For
more than 20 years, Bill worked with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes to conduct golf camps around the country.
Many other golf professionals and tour pros, such as Betsy King, Patty Berg, and Larry Nelson, also helped. Jack and Barb Nicklaus were also a part by sponsoring a tournament that raised funds for golf camps. When someone like Bill has a vision for helping people, others can come along and be a part the dream.
Captain Bill conveyed the message of what it means to live in God's grip. He would tell people, "We all need the Jesus grip." When we are in His grip, we have God's infinite love and power. His message was: God is there to love us, to care for us, to touch us, and to nurture us. Most of all, kids at the camps learned that God makes it possible for each of them to love Him back. Bill Lewis lived unselfishly and exposed thousands to the real Master.
Captain William "Bill" Lewis went to be with the Lord on September 7, 2005.