Robert D. Newman

Robert D. Newman, 56, of Lafayette, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Thursday, April 9, 2026. He was a beloved son, brother, nephew, cousin, uncle, and friend to many; his passing leaves an immeasurable void in the lives of all that knew him.

Rob was born on September 23, 1969, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Robert A. and Susan S. (Shiel) Newman of Vernon Hills, Illinois.  He graduated from Lafayette Jefferson High School in 1988 and attended Ball State University.

Rob worked for nearly 17 years at Subaru of Indiana Automotive as a Team Leader in the Quality Control Department.  He took pride in his work and the relationships he built throughout the years with those around him.

A passionate fan of both amateur and professional sports, Rob closely followed the Chicago White Sox, Indiana University basketball and football, and the Indianapolis Colts and Pacers. He possessed an incredible memory for statistics, history, geography, and sports trivia, and there were very few people who could match his depth of knowledge or enthusiasm when the conversation turned to athletics.

Rob also had a deep love for travel and adventure both within the United States and abroad. He proudly visited all 48 contiguous states and traveled frequently to Mexico, Thailand, and the Philippines. More than simply visiting places, Rob immersed himself in them – exploring local culture, meeting people, and gathering stories and experiences that he always enjoyed sharing with others afterward.  His curiosity about the world and appreciation for new experiences were part of what made him so memorable to those who knew him.

Surviving, along with his parents, are his brothers, C. Scott Newman of Chicago and Bradley W. (Erica) Newman of Huddleston, Virginia. He is also survived by his nephews, Elliott and Ezra Newman of Olympia, Washington; his nephew, Rhody Newman; and his niece, Parker Newman, both of Huddleston, Virginia.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. (EDT) on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at St. Lawrence Catholic Church, 1916 Meharry Street, Lafayette, Indiana 47904.  Inurnment will take place at Ascension Cemetery in Libertyville, Illinois, at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Indiana University’s Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, 320 W. 15th Street, #414, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202.