from the USTA Communications Department

Columbus, OH — Robert Wayne Newman, 56, of Mackinaw, Ill., formally of Mt. Sterling, died Jan. 7, 2016.

Mr. Newman was born Jan. 19, 1959, to Marion and Carol Newman of Mackinaw. He graduated from Dee-Mack High School in 1977, then followed his dream of working with horses by graduating as a licensed farrier from Midwest Horseshoeing School in Macomb, Ill. Expanding on his love of working with race horses, he became an owner, trainer, driver, and farm manager.

He was a member of the Illinois Harness Horsemen’s Association and Jaycees.

Mr. Newman’s love of adventure and travel spurred a move to Colorado where he joined a ski search and rescue team and spent his free time fly fishing, hiking, and back country skiing. Later in life, he became a long distance truck driver, giving him the opportunity to enjoy the sunrise over the Blue Ridge Mountains and to explore America from coast to coast. Recently, he fed his love of meeting people from all walks of life as a ham radio operator where he spoke with people from Ireland to Australia.

He enjoyed spending time with his nieces and nephews, encouraging their appreciation of outdoor activities and nature.

Mr. Newman is survived by his mother, Carol; siblings, JoAnne (Ron) Baumgartner, Mike (Nicole), Linda (Dan) Esenther and Mary (Brian) Gile; and 14 nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Marion.

Cremation rites will be accorded. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday (Jan. 14) at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Hopedale. Visitation will be at the church one hour prior to mass. Burial will be at Mackinaw Township Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Mackinaw Rescue Squad or St. Joseph Catholic Church, Hopedale.

Haensel Funeral Home in Mackinaw is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.haenselfuneralhome.com.