Richard E. Newman

KEWANEE – Richard E. Newman, 74, of rural Kewanee, passed away at 7:12 p.m., Friday, August 2, 2024 at his home.

He was born September 24, 1949 in Kewanee, the son of Selden and Elaine (Schmidt) Newman. He graduated from Annawan High School in 1967 and attended Southern Illinois University before enlisting in the U.S. Army. He served his country during the Vietnam War and obtained the rank of SGT E-5 all before he was 21. Following the passing of his parents he received a hardship discharge from the military so he could continue farming the family farm. He married Betsy Landergren on August 11, 1972. Rich worked for 7 years at JD Seeding before he retired. He was a member of the Annawan Jaycees and was Annawan Township Clerk for 28 years. His hobbies included woodworking, welding yard art, wildflowers and barn quilts to name a few.

Survivors include a son Selden and his family of Annawan, a brother Tommie and his family of Kewanee and his sister Jeanne Carmichael and her family of Bluffton, SC. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother in infancy, a son in infancy Richard Jr., his wonderful wife Betsy and his older sister Linda. Rich and Betsy had been the sole caregivers for Lindy for many years.

Cremation will be accorded and no services are planned. Rux Funeral Home in Kewanee is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be directed to Abilities Plus.

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