From his birth in Cleveland Nov. 11, 1933, to his death Nov. 23, 2013, in Coconut Grove, Fla., Peter Lewis led a life praised by Ralph Nader for its “many enduring legacies and generosities” and its support of “the individual’s freedom from arbitrary abuses and the indentured power of the corporate state.”
At Princeton, he joined Dial Lodge. His roommates were J.F. Howard and Paul Sigler. He wrote his thesis on “Compulsory Automobile Insurance,” the business that allowed him as CEO of Progressive Corp. to develop the specialty of insuring high-risk drivers so successfully that he became one of the country’s most generous philanthropists.
He gave Princeton its single largest gift so far — $101 million for the Lewis Center for the Arts — and a total of more than $220 million.
Never warm and fuzzy, Peter used his money the way he wanted to, and did a lot of good. His generosity included giving of himself to Princeton; he served the University in 11 different positions, including as trustee.
His survivors include his wife, Janet; children Adam, Ivy, and Jonathan; daughter-in-law Melony; grandchildren Ariel, Dakota, and Augusta Powell; and his first wife, Toby Lewis. To them all, the class sends heartfelt sympathy.