Lewis graduated from Hampton High School in 1940 and worked with his father in the building trade until he volunteered for duty in the Navy in 1942. He entered the Seabees but was soon afterward selected to join Underwater Demolition Team 8. This team was the Navy's first "Frogman" team. Team 8 was heavily involved in the "island hopping" battles in the Pacific and was en route to attack the Japanese mainland when they got the word that the Japanese had surrendered which ended the war. Lewis enjoyed a strong bond, and many annual reunions, with his Frogman team members. The Frogmen eventually formed the basis for the modern Navy Seal teams.

After the war, Lewis returned to work with his father as a master builder and eventually took over the company with his brother Earl. In 1965, Lewis entered the Newport News Shipyard as a cost engineer where he worked until 1992.

Lewis was one of the founders of the Lafayette Gun Club in York County, VA. He and several others built the Club's facilities and Lewis was a lifetime member of the club. Lewis was a master sharpshooter who won many shooting contests. He was the Captain of the Virginia State Rifle Team during 1962 - 1963 and led the team in various matches in the US and Canada.

Lewis and his wife Mary were active in the Peninsula Opera for many years. Mary made costumes and Lewis built the scenery for the Opera's productions. Lewis was also active in Peninsula Junior Achievement and was a member of the Demolay and the Wythe Exchange Club. Lewis lived a long, happy, and fulfilled life and will be missed by those who knew him.

There will be a celebration of his life at St. John's Episcopal Church, 100 West Queen St. in downtown Hampton Saturday April 27th at 11:00am.

A scholarship fund has been established in honor of Lewis Whitehouse to benefit local students seeking vocational education. Donations can be made to RE/MAX Capital 1176 Jamestown Rd Suite A, Williamsburg VA 23185.