In Memory
Rick Lee Newman
August 17, 1954 ~ June 26, 2026
Rick Lee Newman, age 71, of South Bend, Indiana, passed away peacefully with his family and close friends by his side on June 25, 2026. He was born on August 17, 1954, to Donald C. Newman I and Diane (Hemlock) Brown. He grew up in South Bend, Indiana, and graduated from LaSalle High School and was an Indiana University graduate.
Rick was a proud and successful business owner. He retired as owner in January 2025 from Al-Ex, Inc. in Elkhart, Indiana, where he worked in the aluminum extrusion industry for over twenty years. He was also the founder and owner of Mishawaka Sheet Metal in Elkhart, Indiana, from 1991–2006.
On March 20, 2009, Rick married Francee (Berridge) Foster. He was a loving husband and a pillar of strength for his family. He shared many years of love and adventure with his wife, Francee Newman. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. His absence leaves a profound void in our lives, and he will always be deeply missed by his wife and five children: Nicole (Newman) Thomas, Aron (Andrea) Newman, Alex Newman, and stepchildren: Jeffrey (Abigail) Foster and David (Allison) Foster; and his grandchildren Delainey, Branigan, Braden, Ariana, Nora, Carter, Colt, Vivian, Audrey, and Tiegen.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Diane (Hemlock) Brown and Donald C. Newman I; his sister, Mary “Jan” Newman; and his brother, Donald “Chip” Newman II. He is survived by his sister, Lynn Peddycord, and sister-in-law Pamela Newman.
Rick loved life and lived it fully. He enjoyed boating, golfing, traveling, the beach, music, socializing, and spending time with the people he loved. Those who knew him will remember him as a gentle, generous man who had a great sense of humor and valued family, friendship, and making memories.
Rick will be cremated and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Those who attend will be welcomed to share stories, memories, and laughter as they remember Ricky and the many great times they were fortunate to spend with him. Further details will be shared at a later time.
Rick’s memory will live on through the many lives he touched and the love he gave so freely.
As Ricky liked to say, "If I were any better, I'd be you"—a classic Ricky line that always brought a smile and reflected his sense of humor.
Added 06/28/2026 1121 GMS
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