A native of Wisconsin, Dr. Lewis completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Wisconsin and graduated from Marquette University School of Dentistry in 1981. He was commissioned as an Ensign in the U.S. Navy Dental Corps during his third year of dental school and began active duty upon graduation. He retired from the Navy in January 2009 as a Captain and is currently serving as the staff forensic odontologist with the Mississippi Office of the State Medical Examiner in Pearl, MS. He has been a forensic consultant to a number of organizations including the Florida State District IV Mass Disaster ID Team, Guam International Airport Authority, Naval Criminal Investigative Service, San Diego & Imperial County Coroner's Office, and the Autopsy Service of Naval Hospital San Diego. He became a Diplomate in 1992 and has served the ABFO in a number of capacities including as President of the organization from 2004-2005. In December 2021 he earned a Master of Arts degree in World War II Studies from Arizona State University.