Eugene J. "Gene" Newstat

1948 - 2024

September 14, 1948 - August 6, 2024 Eugene Jeffrey Newstat (aka Gene, Papa Bear, Prince Teddy, Uncle Grumpy, and Big Little) passed away peacefully at home on August 6, 2024. Born in Los Angeles, California. Preceding him in death were his beloved parents, Martin and Rose, his cherished wife Marsha of 51 years, and his son, Joshua, of whom he was most proud.
Gene graduated from Hamilton High School, class of '66. He met the love of his life, his wife, Marsha Newstat (née Stone), in college, and they both graduated from UCLA in '70. He was a Sales Manager in the Furniture Industry for over 50 years. He was "Sales Manager of the Year" several years in a row and The Greatest Foam Seller of All Time!
Gene's family and their happiness meant everything to him. He is survived by his devoted daughter Rachel, for whom he was so immensely grateful, "couldn't do it without her," and loved and respected deeply. He is also survived by his loving grandchildren Elora and Elijah (Joshua and Freya's children), brother Neal, sister Shelly aka his very best friend and "Little Big' (Jonathan), treasured cousin Elaine, nieces Ashley (Sam), Allison (Scott), Marissa, nephew Jeremy (Megan), great-nephews Alex, Tyler James, and great-nieces Kaya and Sophia.
He wrote Marsha a handwritten note every single morning to start their day. He coached Joshua in many years of Little League and then marveled at the man and father he became. Never a day went by without Gene appreciating Rachel, and in awe of her courage and independence. He delighted in every detail shared by Elora and Elijah.
He will always be remembered as the ultimate Protector, Bruin Fan and Deli Food Lover. He was endlessly resilient. He was a fantastic writer, had an exceptional sense of humor and work ethic, all of which he passed on to his children. Gene was larger than life, strong, loving, loud, punctual, and a compassionate Father, Husband, Papa Bear, Brother, Uncle, Cousin, Nephew, Friend and Confidante to so many.
He will remain in our hearts forever.
Services on Sunday, 8/11 at Eden Memorial Park at 1pm.