Gerald Lee Newton

Gerald Lee Newton (Newt), age 64 of Hastings, passed away January 12, 2013 surrounded by loving family and friends. Gerald was born November 29, 1948 in Hastings the son of Lyle A. and Jean Marie (Deckins) Newton.

Newt graduated from Hastings High School in 1967. He was a member of the FFA and 4-H club. Newt worked for Farm Bureau, just out of High School. He was employed by Diamond Machinery for many years and retired from there. Newt loved his job and the people he worked with, which included best friends Rusty Barton and Ted DeMott. He served in the US Army during the VietNam War from 1968 until 1970 and was honorably discharged from there. He married Gloria Highsmith in the Spring of 1971. Gloria and Gerald had two children. That marriage later ended in divorce, however the two remained friends throughout the years. Newt had many hobbies which included; hunting, boating, gun collecting, auction sales, and coin collecting. He farmed the family farm with his father and brothers. Newt was an active member of the VFW, NRA and the American Legion for 43 years.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Lyle and Jean Newton and grandparents: Neal and Edna Newton of Freeport.

Newt is survived by his son, Jason Newton; daughter, Jill Newton of Newtonville, MI; grandchildren: Jaylon Newton, Jannah Newton, Jacob Gay and Joshua Gay all of Newtonville; brothers, James Newton, Terry Newton, both of Newtonville; and sister, Joyce Newton of Texas; stepbrothers: David Becker and Bob Becker; half brothers: Jeff and Dale Becker of Texas as well as many nieces and nephews.

Memorial Contributions:
Lawrence J. Bauer American Legion Post #45
2160 S. M-37 Hwy.
Hastings, MI 49058

Visitation:
Wednesday, January 16, 2013 11:00 am until 12:00 pm
Girrbach Funeral Home

Funeral Service:
Wednesday, January 16, 2012 @ 12:00 pm
Girrbach Funeral Home
Military Honors will be provided by American Legion Post 45