Charles "Ray" Newton

Charles R. Newton “Ray” was born to Ray and Ruth Newton on December 22, 1936, in Adrian, Michigan. He passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on April 21, 2024, at the age of 87.  

Ray was a remarkable man. He and his beloved wife, Victoria Hemmingsen Newton, were married for 55 years and theirs was a love affair for the ages, each always loving and supporting the other no matter the circumstances. He served in the Army during the Korean War and was so proud to be an American.

Ray was a passionate teacher in everything he did, whether in the classroom, coaching on the football field, or running a factory, his goal was to leave people better than he found them and to ensure that they were successful. Additionally, he loved all animals, and all animals also instantly loved him. If you had an animal, you could be certain that your pet would love him more than anyone else, including you!

He was courageous and never backed down when he thought something was right. He was always willing to defend his perspective and to defend the underdog. Ray “adopted” many people throughout his life and called them all his “sons” and “daughters” and loved them well. Ray was funny and could tell a tale with great skill and humor and he loved to laugh.

He had a tremendous intellect and earned multiple degrees as he learned quickly and retained information well. He was a giver and a volunteer in the community as a member of the Kiwanis club of Chelsea, MI and many other organizations that helped others. He wanted to give back and to be impactful to the people and the places he loved. Ray was larger than life and he lived with great passion and conviction.

He is survived by his wife, Victoria Hemmingsen Newton, his children Ray Newton (Cindi), Paige Gray (Chris), and Hans Newton (Stacy) as well as his 11 grandchildren Ryanne, Joseph, Beverly, Jordan, Jamie, Charlie, Emily, Matthew, Alex, Jack, and Grace as well as many great grandchildren. He will be deeply missed and remembered forever in our hearts.

Friends may call at Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services, 723 US HWY 27 N, Marshall, MI 49068 on Monday, April 29, 2024, from 11AM - 12PM where Ray’s family will be present to share memories and stories of Ray. A funeral service celebrating his life will be held at 12PM with Dr. Tom Rundel officiating. Committal at Oakridge Cemetery will follow services.

The family suggests memorial contributions to Pieper Hull Sparks American Legion Post 176, 115 N. Jackson Street, Clinton, MI 49236 or envelopes are available at the funeral home. 

Also, please visit https://www.kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guest book or to leave the family condolences.