Tributes pour in from fans of Teenage Head’s Gord Lewis

Tributes are pouring in from fans and friends of Gord Lewis, the founding guitarist of Hamilton punk band Teenage Head.

Gord was found dead in his Hamilton apartment over the weekend, allegedly killed by his own son.

The Ongoing History of New Music host, Alan Cross remembers the band fondly, “Teenage Head was punk before anyone was talking about punk. They were formed at Westdale high school in 1975. They started something and they proved to be a little bit ahead of their time.”

Gord’s youngest brother Brian Lewis says Gord was born to be in a band and says there was always music in their house growing up. Brian was around 8 years old when he first heard his brother’s band play and says his family always encouraged Gord to follow his passion for music.

“We loved him, and we loved it and there’s never been a separation between the two,” Brian said.

Gord’s son, 41-year-old Jonathan Lewis was arrested at the apartment and charged with second-degree murder.

Brian says that those who knew the two of them together (Gord and Jonathan) knew that their relationship wasn’t perfect. The family and police have both said mental health was a factor.

Brian has a message for people living with loved ones with mental health issues,

“Our family message to you is to please do all you can. Accept it, acknowledge it, learn about it and when you don’t think you can do anymore, try that one more step,” Brian said.

The family will hold a private funeral service for Gord, and say there will be a celebration of life for friends and fans at a later date.