Lessons From Lewis

From the Nebraska dust bowl to the battlefields of Italy, from the Great Depression to World War II, Lewis Kehne lived through an extraordinary era. But more remarkable than the history he witnessed was the quiet wisdom he passed down through sayings, songs, jingles, and stories-lessons that would shape his son's adventures across decades of conservation work, wilderness rescues, lifelong friendships, and family bonds.

In his heartfelt memoir, Jay Kehne weaves together chapters each named for one of his father's teachings. Through vivid storytelling, he reveals how wisdom transcends generations not through grand speeches, but through the simple act of living with integrity, humor, and love. Every adventure, from backcountry elk hunts to career-defining moments, traces back to seeds planted by a soft-spoken Nebraska farm boy who became an extraordinary man.

Lessons From Lewis is a powerful reminder that the stories we tell and the way we live our lives echo far beyond our years. Whether you're young and remembering someone who shaped you, a parent discovering your influence on your children, or a grandparent recognizing your legacy, this book awakens us to the profound impact we each have on those we love.

Jay Kehne lives with his wife, five dogs, five cats, and a horse, overlooking the Okanogan River in Omak, Washington. After graduating in 1978 from Washington State University with a BS in wildlife biology and soil science, he spent a lifetime in conservation work. He was appointed by the governor to serve on the Washington State Fish & Wildlife Commission from 2011 to 2018 and received the Conservation Leadership Achievement Award in 2021 from the National Wildlife Federation. He enjoys skiing, hunting, fishing and hiking with family and friends. Jay has five grown children and five grandchildren who were the inspiration for him to write Lessons From Lewis, his first book.