The man who started the company that bears his name managed communications for the 1980 Olympic Winter Games in Lake Placid and assisted the New York Racing Association for decades.
Famed Saratoga thoroughbred owner and breeder Marylou Whitney said Lewi "helped put Saratoga on the map."
Lewi's agency, which he founded in the late 1960's as a part-time venture, also assisted Saratoga Performing Arts Center and the Great Escape & Splashwater Kingdom. The company was sold to current owner Mark Bardack in 2010.
Lewi began his career as a sports writer for the Daily Gazette. He worked for the Associated Press, United Press International, and spent 18 years with the Times Union in advertising and marketing.
Lewi is survived by his wife Maureen; sons Jim Lewi and Joe Lewi; daughters-in-law Lori and Melissa; and his four grandchildren: Gwen, Melanie, Emma and Jacob. He was 81.
