Kenneth Eugene Newton, Sr. age 53 of rural Three Rivers, died Thursday Dec. 15, 2011 at his home following a long illness. He was born in Manila, Arkansas on May 11, 1958 the son of James and Mildred (Keith) Newton. The family came to Michigan in 1966 where he graduated from St. Joseph High School. Ken has resided in the Three Rivers-Mendon area since 1988, and attended Glen Oaks Community College. He is a former employee of Bail Rubber Company in St. Joseph.

Ken was married to Susan Thompson in Benton Harbor on June 11, 1977. She survives along with 4 children, Elizabeth Dawn (Dan) Abel, Kenneth E. Newton II, Jason Newton, all of Three Rivers, and Nelitta (Ron) Wilson of Indiana; 3 grandchildren, Alisia Newton, Jason Wolfe, Jr., and Braxton Wolfe; 9 siblings, Lonnie Newton, Donnie (Jackie) Newton, John (Patricia) Newton, Tim Newton, Janet Hurley, Peggy (Barney) Davis, Linda Ward, Brenda Osborn, and Charlene (Ron) Matrua; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; 3 sisters, Kathy Newton, Beverly French, and Paulette Neville; and by 2 brothers, Larry Newton and Jimmy Newton.

In keeping with Ken's wishes, cremation has taken place. The family will receive friends at an open house from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday Dec. 18, 2011 at the Newton home located at 20126 M-60, near Fisher Lake. Memorials may be directed to the family. An online register is available at www.eickhofffuneralhome.com