Earl David Newson

Earl David Newson, age 79, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, December 21st, surrounded by his loving family, after a brave two-year battle with congestive heart failure. Throughout his illness, he displayed incredible strength and resilience.

Born on March 19, 1945, to Clarence William Newson and Margaret Elizabeth Sollis, Earl graduated from West High School and then enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1964.

He married Diane Lynn Morgan on May 28, 1965 in Salt Lake City. They raised their 4 children in Taylorsville. Earl was a loving husband and father. He enjoyed watching Nascar, Football (go Chiefs), strong coffee and loved being in his garage. Earl will be remembered most for his immaculate cars, which he took great pride in maintaining.

Earl proudly served our country for 29 years as a jet engine mechanic with the Utah Air National Guard. Throughout his distinguished military career, he was deployed multiple times overseas, including serving in Operation Desert Storm. Earl earned numerous awards for his dedication and service and was honorably discharged as a Master Sergeant from the 151st CAMS Squadron.

After retiring from the military, Earl spent seven years enjoying his well-deserved retirement before embarking on a new chapter with the Utah Transit Authority. He began as a bus driver and later transitioned to a position as a TRAX engineer, continuing to serve his community with pride.

Earl later pursued additional education to learn the commuter rail system, dedicating himself to mastering the FrontRunner. After 11 years of service, he became the first engineer in Utah to retire from the FrontRunner, a significant milestone in his career.

Earl's legacy of service, dedication, and perseverance will forever be remembered by all who knew him.

Earl is survived by his wife of almost 60 years, Diane Lynn Newson; three daughters and one son: Wendy Lynn (Curt) Cochran, Lisa Shanon "Baby Snooks" (Dave) Brown, Stuart Earl (Bitina) Newson, and Melissa Diane Newson (Jeremy); twelve grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Survived by sisters Elaine Huston ( Grant deceased) Shirley (Reed) Wall, brother James (Margie) Newson, and sister Mary ( Danny) Van Wagenen. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Mook, and sisters Jean and Carol.

The family would like to extend special thanks to the Solstice Hospice team, especially Josh, Elizabeth, and Andres, for their support and care during his final days.

A small service will be held at Utah Veterans Cemetery and Memorial Park, 17111 S. 1700 W, Bluffdale on January 6th at 11:00. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that those who wish to honor Earl's memory consider making a donation to the Utah Air National Guard.