Charles Newby

Charles Rudolph Newby, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, was called home to Heaven on January 10, 2025, at the age of 83. He was born on September 14, 1941, in Stevens Point to Howard and Lynndred (nee: Pederson) Newby. He was baptized into the Christian faith on October 19, 1941. He later confirmed his faith in Jesus Christ at St. John's Lutheran Church in Almond, WI.

A proud alumnus of the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, Charles graduated in 1964 with a bachelor's degree. His professional was life marked by a commitment to public service and a passion for the great outdoors, which he expressed as an active member of several organizations, including the Lions Club, the National Park and Recreation Association and was even President of The Wisconsin Christmas Tree Association for over 20 years. Charles shared his love for music as a member of the Wausau Lyric Choir. He was a faithful member of Our Savior Lutheran Church, Wausau, where he served his Lord in many leadership positions, as well as singing in the church choir. 

Charles met the love of his life, Diann, in Stevens Point. They married on December 15, 1965, in Marion, North Carolina, where Charles was employed as a National Park Ranger. Throughout their marriage, they lived in many places, finally settling in Wausau. Their family business, Newby's Evergreen Farm, was started in the 1970's and became a favorite destination for Christmas Trees in the area.

In addition, Charles found joy in the pleasures of fishing and hunting, often venturing into the wild to pursue deer and elk and enjoying fun and fellowship with fellow hunters. He attended events like the "Ice Bowl," at Lambeau Field where his love for the Packers was on full display.

Charles is survived by his devoted wife, Diann, and their three children, Bralynn Newby, LeAnn Newby, and Dawn (Fred) Cannon. He was also a proud grandfather to his cherished grandson, Rylan Cannon. His loving siblings, Charlene Hartlaub and Cathlene Clark, along with sister-in-law Sandra Ann (Robert) Kilcoyne, will miss him dearly, as will a multitude of extended family and friends whose lives he touched with kindness and generosity. He is preceded in death by brother-in-law Stuart Clark, sisters-in-law Karen and Karel Jankoski and nephew Jack McCune.

A visitation for Charles will be held on Friday, January 17 at Our Savior Lutheran Church, 703 Flieth St., from 9-10:45 am. His funeral service will follow at 11 am. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Our Savior Lutheran Church.

We are at peace, knowing that Charles is rejoicing with his Savior in Heaven.