Richard Daniel Newlon

Richard D. Newlon, age 89. Born in Columbus February 8, 1935, passed away in the care of his loving daughter on December 21, 2024. Preceded in death by his beloved wife of 66 years, Viola. 

Survived by three children, F. Michael Newlon, Shaun T. Newlon (Christine), and Marianna E. Stillgess; seven grandchildren, Kelli Rangel, Daniel Newlon (Tara), Sarah Matchen (Jeremiah), Joseph Newlon (Kathleen), John Newlon (Brittany), Jessica Newlon and Rebecca Newlon; eight great-grandchildren, Michael, Sebastian, Griffin, Camila, Calvin, Harper, Bennett and Cassidy. 

“Dick” grew up in the Hilltop area, and attended Columbus West High School before graduating from Linden-McKinley High School in 1951. He had a lifelong career in the Sheet Metal industry, contributing for 55 years as a draftsman, estimator, welder, shop fabricator, designer, and in field installation. He was very proud to be a Union Sheet Metal Worker in Local 98 (now Local 24), with the “Journeyman of the Year” Award named for him. He also taught in the Apprenticeship Program for 40 years, later being named Coordinator of the JATC program. He then worked at NEMI (National Energy Management Institute) to help develop new markets for the sheet metal industry, and collaborated at Ohio State about vocational education. 

Most of all, he was a devoted husband and father who always supported his family above all else. He enjoyed bowling, the Columbus Redbirds/Jets/Clippers, the Ohio State Buckeyes, golf, and playing fastpitch softball. He also coached little league fastpitch softball, and was truly one of the best coaches possible for the kids. He also had great affinity for all of the family pets over the years, especially Roxy. Richard often expressed gratitude for the many years of care given by his daughter, Marianna, who was always at his side. 

The family also wishes to thank all of the friends and neighbors who have provided support, especially Eileen Weideman and the staff from Grace Hospice. 

Funeral Services will be held on January 10, 2025 at Newcomer Funeral Home, 3047 E. Dublin-Granville Rd., Columbus, Ohio. Visitation will be from 11:30-12:30, with a service immediately following. Interment is at Green Lawn Cemetery in Columbus. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Faith Mission in Columbus or the National Down Syndrome Congress.