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Bill Laverne Newman, age 88, of Three Rivers, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Saturday, December 23, 2017 at Grace Healthcare. He was born in Three Rivers on July 22, 1929 the son of Frank and Gladys (Holmes) Newman.
Bill was a lifelong resident of Three Rivers. Bill graduated from Three Rivers High School and enlisted into the U.S. Marine Corps where he served his country honorably for eight years in active duty and reserves. He also achieved the Marine Corps Distinguished Shooter medal for his skills in shooting. Upon his honorable discharge he drove truck for two years and went to work for Elkhart Brass. There he worked as a machinist and went on to become a plant foreman until his retirement after forty three years of service. On April 13, 1978 he was united in marriage to Carol A. Sanders in Cadillac, MI.
He was an avid and life member of the National Rifle Association. He participated in the National Matches in Ohio every summer where he won many medals and trophies for his skill. He was also a life member and commander of the American Legion Post # 170, D.A.V in Elkhart, V.F.W. of Three Rivers, and Marine Corps Detachment of St. Joseph County 1401. Bill was active in the Three Rivers Eagles, Moose Lodge, and Three Rivers Elks. He was always busy assisting veterans and honoring his duties in the community. He also enjoyed hunting deer every winter in Wyoming.
Bill was preceded in passing by his parents, one son, and one sister.
He leaves to cherish his loving memory, wife of thirty nine years, Carol A. Newman of Three Rivers; daughters, Paula Noble of Texas and Romayne D. Dray of Florida; son, Bill Newman, Jr. of Elkhart; eight step children; brother, Fred (Carol) Newman of Traverse City, MI; many grandchildren and great grandchildren, along with beloved Houston and Cory that Bill and Carol helped raise.
The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. until time of funeral service beginning at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, December 29, 2017 at Hohner Funeral Home with Chaplain Norm Stutesman of the American Legion Post # 170 officiating.
Interment will be held at Riverside Cemetery with military honors.
Memorial donations may be directed to Marine Corps Detachment 1401, American Legion Post # 170, or The Newman Family c/o of Carol Newman. Envelopes available at the funeral home.
Online condolences may be shared at www.hohnerfh.com.
I knew Bill as a coach for the MRPA rifle team and as a fellow shooter. Bill would always give 110% and was a great and honorable person and will be missed greatly. I wish I could be there to see him off but I have to be at the VA in Ann Arbor at 1:00 Friday. And again, I will miss him very much.