Ronald (Ron) Dean Newman, 61, died on September 25, 2018 in his home in Bonita Springs, FL, leaving behind too many newspaper cartoon clippings and a big hole in the hearts of those who loved him.
He was born August 13, 1957 to Keith and Donna Newman in South Dakota and undoubtedly lived up to his ‘baby of the family’ title by never quite agreeing to grow up. Ron spent most of his childhood in Fergus Falls, MN before eventually moving to Florida where he spent the majority of his adult life. Never far away from a great time, Ron was always ready with a bad joke, albeit a sometimes surly sense of humor.
Ron is survived by his brother Randy (Chris) Newman, his mother Donna Newman, his favorite niece Kayla Thorpe, nephews Josh Thorpe, Nate (Jill) Newman, and Andrew (Ann) Newman and several great-nieces and nephews. Known to his niece and nephews as ‘Uncle Buck’, he was the guy who talked them in to swinging from cables 300 feet in the air, sent dollar store toys for Christmas even in to their 30’s and 40’s, and successfully kept the woopie cushion company in business. Our Uncle Buck carted us and all of our junk to the beach, was always the first to spot the dolphins, and still managed to find shark teeth on occasion.
Ron was preceded in death by his dad Keith Newman, and sister Judy Thorpe. His loving pride (and even a friendly joke or two) for his dad and sister carried through long after they passed, and he could occasionally be caught telling stories that kept their memories alive.
Since his passing we have received so many great calls and messages sharing stories and loving memories about Ron. It seems clear that Ron wasn’t just a friend, he was a BEST friend to so many!
Heartfelt thanks to all of the people who have been so kind and helpful to Ron and his mom, Donna, during their time at Imperial Harbor in Florida. We know there are neighbors and friends who have shown immense support, and our family is forever grateful!
There will be a Celebration of Life honoring Ron on Saturday, November 10th at 1pm. This will be held at the Harbor Club in the park that Ron was living - Imperial Harbor in Bonita Springs, Florida. We would love to see you!
(26230 Imperial Harbor Blvd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135)
