Robert Louis Newman, 64, of La Porte, passed away on Friday, February 12, 2016, in Kendallville, IN as the result of an automobile accident. He was born in Richmond, IN, on April 30, 1951 to Bobby J. and Dorothy Ann (McCarty) Newman.
On April 27, 1994 in Mobile, AL, he married Claudette Archer who survives. Also surviving are his beloved children, Jennifer (Mike) Hansen of Portage, IN, Gary (Diana) Stewart and Robert (Natalee) Stewart, both of La Porte, IN; five grandchildren, Hayley, Christopher, Nicholas, Lucian, and Vincent; three siblings, Sandy Welsh of Fort Wayne, IN, John (Lori) Newman of Lafayette, IN, and Peggy (Vinnie) Rounds of Spofford, NH; and his stepmother, Mary Newman of Muncie, IN. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Robert retired as a telephone lineman from Verizon after over thirty years of service. Robert was a faithful member of the La Porte Assembly of God where he was very involved. He served as an usher, a greeter, and was always willing to lend a hand wherever needed in the church. Robert was an avid bowler and cyclist, completing several century rides before falling in love with motorcycles. He was very active in the GWRRA and served as a chapter director and assistant district director. He was also a member of ABATE, AMA, and served as a task force leader for the Northern Indiana Ride for Kids. However, this was all a cover to protect his real identity, Santa Clause. As Santa, he made many appearances locally over the years.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 12 noon on Wednesday, February 17, 2016 at La Porte Assembly of God. Pastor Jeff Hines will officiate.
A time of visitation will be held from 4 - 8 pm on Tuesday, February 16, 2016 at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center and also from 11 am until the time of service on Wednesday at the church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be directed to the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation Ride For Kids, 302 Ridgefield Ct., Asheville, NC 28806.