John Newman

John Newman, devoted father and cherished friend, peacefully departed this life on September 14, 2025, in Buchanan, Michigan, surrounded by the embrace of his family. A native son of Niles, Michigan, John was born on December 4, 1949—a place where he spent his formative years, raised his own family, and shared a deep, enduring bond with Dennise Waldenmaier for 35 years.

Throughout his life, John was known not only for his deep sense of family but also for his playful spirit. He was a man of many talents, and his jovial nature often brightened the lives of those around him. He found joy in simple pleasures, such as spending time in the great outdoors, where he created lasting memories with his brother Doug and identical twin brother Dave while deer and rabbit hunting on the family property. He instilled important lessons in those he loved, teaching Doug the art of driving at an impressively young age of 12—a testament to his characteristic blend of mentorship and fun.

John worked hard and wore many hats over the years. He was employed at Buchanan Steel and Creative Molding in Buchanan, and later worked with Scotty Sirovica at Express Press Delivery Orders. For years, he and his brother Dave sold Christmas trees together—most likely through Heston Tree Farms, a tradition that brought joy to many local families.

He also had a passion for pool, spending countless hours at Skip’s Pool Hall in Niles with his brothers, especially Dave, while Doug watched as a little kid. He played baseball with his brother Dave at F.O.P. in Niles and loved riding dirt bikes around the terminals with lifelong friend Dave Burrows. John had a keen eye for antiques and enjoyed collecting and admiring pieces that told stories of the past.

John's legacy is forever etched in the hearts of his surviving family members. He is deeply mourned by his daughter Heidi Johnson, who resides in Arizona; his son Michael (Krystle) Carpenter; son Andrew Carpenter; his daughter Megan Carpenter; and his beloved son-in-law Matt. His seven grandchildren—William, Ariah, Lillie, Skilar, Gracelynn, Liberty, and Ziland—were the pride of his life, and he adored them with a fervor that resonated through every gathering and smile shared. In addition to his children and grandchildren, John is survived by his siblings, Doug and Connie Newman; his niece Angela Newman (Matt Moses), niece Amanda Fisher, along with niece DeeAnna Clark, along with four great-nephews and three great-nieces who looked up to him with adoring eyes.

John was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Albert and Edith Newman, along with his identical twin brother Dave Newman, whose spirits shaped his values and molded him into the compassionate man he became. His departure leaves a void that will be felt deeply by the multitude of friends and family whose lives he touched.

This treasured soul navigated through life with a heart that expanded to encompass all who knew him, balancing family loyalty with a talent for levity. As we remember John Newman, let us carry forth the lessons of love, camaraderie, and laughter that he imparted so generously. May his spirit live on in the memories we share and the stories we tell, preserving a legacy that will endure through the generations.