Great-grandfather, former Claremont mayor, Air Force veteran, volunteer

Richard Howard Newton, 93, of Claremont, died peacefully in his sleep on April 11.

Richard was born October 12, 1932, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Howard and Evelyn Newton. He grew up in Milwaukee with his sister, Carol, and graduated from Purdue University with a degree in mechanical engineering, where he also served as president of his fraternity, Theta Xi. He later earned an Executive Master of Business degree from Claremont Graduate School (now Claremont Graduate University).

He proudly served as an intelligence officer in the United States Air Force, achieving the rank of captain. He then spent nearly four decades at Aerojet General as a program manager, where he was known for his professionalism, leadership, and dedication.

In 1955, he married Martha, and together they had four children. After her death in 1964, he remained a steady and devoted father to his young family. In 1966, he married Elaine, with whom he shared a loving and enduring partnership for the rest of their days. Together, they were deeply invested in their family, faithfully showing up for their children and grandchildren at games, performances, and graduations.

He moved his family to Claremont in 1968, where he became deeply involved in the community. He served on the City Council and as mayor, and contributed his time to several local organizations and civic efforts. He was also a longtime member of the Masons and the Winchester Lions Club.

“Richard was a man of steady character and quiet service,” his family shared. He coached Little League for his three sons and, in retirement, volunteered his time preparing taxes for seniors and recording books for the blind.

He enjoyed an active life, including biking, skiing, and golf, and loved to travel — especially to Scandinavia. In his later years, he cherished time spent at his lake cottage in northern Wisconsin.

He is survived by his sister, Carol; children Scott, Gayle, Jeff, and Mark, and their spouses, Cathy, John, Filippa, and Inger; grandchildren Grant, Teri, Shelby, Sarah, Erik, Kelly, and Thomas; and great-grandchildren Burke, Cy, Reese, Knox, Etta, Ava, Warren, and Anello.

“Richard will be remembered for his kindness, steady presence, and deep devotion to his family and community,” his family said. “He will be greatly missed.”

A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 12 in the Assembly Room at Mt. San Antonio Gardens, 900 Harrison Ave., Pomona, CA 91767.