Harold Francis Newell, Beloit
April 29, 1945 - May 31, 2021
Harold Francis Newell, age 76, of Beloit, passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by loved ones on May 31, 2021. He was born on April 29, 1945 in Hays, Kansas, son of Lawrence (Joe) and Rita Newell, who preceded him in death. He was a dearly loved husband, father, grandpa, papa, great-grandpa, and brother. On October 26, 1965, Harold married Joyce Ann Compton. Home for Harold was Damar, Kansas, where he and Joyce, his lovely wife of 55 and a ½ years, raised their family and attended church.
There are no coincidences in God’s kingdom. Harold was a man of faith and generosity. He was also a man with a dashing sense of humor. It is fitting that he passed away on Memorial Day. He proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, receiving a Bronze Star. On May 31, 2015 he was selected to take an Honor Flight. He was awarded a Quilt of Valor on November 3, 2017.
He worked for Abercrombie Drilling Company until the oil crash in 1985. He then became a truck driver for the next 25 years, retiring only last December. Describing Harold as a hard worker is an enormous understatement.
Just a few years ago he was harvesting fields in other states. He was known as the man in his seventies who could keep up with the kids in their twenties. There was never a dull moment with Harold. He lived his life to the fullest. In his younger years he enjoyed both motorcycle and horseback riding, playing pool and cards as well as hunting and camping. In his later years he loved spending time with his family and friends. He had a way of making everyone feel welcome. No one left the Newell table hungry. Joyce did the cooking and he did the laughing. He was passionate about guns, loved showing them to his loved ones and telling them stories. He enjoyed making ice cream and spoiling his grandchildren. He was loving, funny, and most of all ornery. He loved on his great-grandchildren, squeezing their little toes, roaring with laughter. He also enjoyed spending time with his siblings. Family was always the most important part of his life. He will be infinitely missed.
Harold is preceded in death by his beloved grandson Brandon Doerfler; angel grandchildren, John, Christopher, Carsen, and Jessie Heidrick; angel great-grandchildren Tripp Fox and Baby Sharp; brothers Leland and Michael Newell; sisters Albertine Garcia, and Louise Schmidt.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife Joyce Ann Compton Newell; children Shawna (Arlan) VanEngen, Billy (Tammi) Newell, Teresa (Scott) Heidrick; grandchildren Jordan (John) Fox, Brooke Newell, Brady (Shelby) Doerfler, Logan (Brooklyn) Newell, Brant (Theresa) Doerfler, Bryant Doerfler, Ragen (Justin) Sharp, Blake Newell, Andersen Heidrick; 20 great-grandchildren; brother Dale Newell; sisters Kathyleen Brown, Lois Sumner, Carmen Sims, and many nieces and nephews. Memorials may be given to the Perdue Hospitality House or the Damar City Park.
Memorial services for Harold Francis Newell, age 76, of Beloit will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 5 at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Damar, KS. Mr. Newell died Monday, May 31 at his home. Visitation will be held at the church 6p.m. – 9 p.m. Rosary and vigil will take place at 7 p.m.
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