William Duane Newton

William Duane Newton, 79, of Eldon, passed away Thursday, July 25, 2013, at St. Mary's Health Center in Jefferson City. On March 30, 1934, he was born in Mansfield, the son of the late Archie and Hazel (Chapman) Newton. On June 23, 1956, in Olean, he was united in marriage to Joan (Blair) Newton and they were married for 57 years, and she survives of the home. Bill graduated in 1951 from Eldon High School. He served in the United States Army from 1956-1962 in Ft. Leonard Wood; Ft. Rucker, Ala.; Ft. Belvoir, Va. as a fixed wing airplane mechanic. After his retirement from the Army, he was employed with the Missouri State Highway Dept. as a surveyor for 20 years; Stark Construction; and after retiring was employed at Rebecca's Restaurant where he was famous for his fried chicken and his love of cooking for friends. He also enjoyed fishing. Other survivors include: sister, Carolyn S. Hopkins of Blue Springs; brother and sister-in-law, Bobby D. and Carol Newton of Eldon; sister and brother-in-law, Mary Kay and Charles Banner of Eldon; and many nieces and nephews. His parents and mother-in-law, Virginia Bowen, preceded him in death. Visitation will be Tuesday, July 30, 2013 from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at Ninth Street Christian Church of Eldon, with funeral service beginning at 12:00 p.m. with Chris Reynolds, Minister, officiating. Interment will follow at Olean Cemetery with full military honors provided by VFW Post #2442 of Eldon. Memorials are suggested to the Olean Cemetery or the Ninth Street Christian Church Building Fund. Arrangements are under the direction of Phillips Funeral Home of Eldon.