Laurel Ernest Newton

Laurel Ernest Newton, age 91 of Hastings, passed away peacefully Sunday, May 27, 2018 at Bronson LakeView Hospital.  Laurel was born January 29, 1927 in Baltimore Township, Barry County, the son of Archie and Luella (Willetts) Newton.  Laurel lived his life in the Dowling area and graduated in 1945 prior to serving our country from 1945 to 1947.  Upon his return from military service, he married Patricia Watson on August 25, 1951.  Together they enjoyed 55 years of marriage.

Laurel is survived by his children Dorothy Newton, Janet and Scott Gooch, Gary and Candace Newton, and JoAnn and Jeff Roberts along with grandchildren Larry and Heather Shortt, Joshua and Ann Nowak, Shannon Kurr, Tim and Kelly Voshell, Aaron Jaworsky, David Jaworsky, Adam Gooch, Emma Gooch, Dustin and Rachel France, Jeff and Arica Braden, Edgar and Jessica Marroquin, Thomas and Megan Newton, Benjamin Conklin, Cody Newton, Travis and Beth Elegert, and AJ Roberts along with 12 great-grandchildren.

Laurel was preceded in death by his loving wife, Patricia; an infant son; daughter Beverly; grandson Shane Kurr; father and mother, Archie and Luella; brothers and their spouse's, Carroll and Edith; Donald and Mary; and sister and spouse Walt and Cosma Soya.

Laurel loved Jesus Christ and did his best to love others. He will be remembered for his personality, sharing of stories from the past, and his knee-slapping laughter.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time with family and friends.  Laurel and Pat owned and operated Newton's Well Service for 37 years prior to retiring.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 31, 2018 at Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings from 5-7 pm.  Funeral service will be held Friday, June 1, 2018 at 11:00 am at Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings with Pastor Gary Newton officiating. Burial will be at Cedar Creek Cemetery with military honors by American Legion Post 45 and active military. Arrangements have been made by Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. To leave online condolences visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net .