Richard Dale Newton

Richard Dale Newton, 82, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Sunday, November 16, 2025 at the Wheatland Nursing Center in Russell.

Richard was born on November 1, 1943, to Richard R. and Elsie Evelyn (Simacek) Newton in Kingston, Oklahoma. Growing up he attended schools in Hobbs, New Mexico; Gore, Oklahoma; Cabot, Arkansas and Russell. His father worked for Halliburton operating heavy equipment. They eventually settled in Russell and Richard graduated from Russell High School in the Class of 1961. After high school, he attended Garden City JUCO on a football scholarship and in his first year was an All-Conference Defensive End.

On May 21, 1963, Richard and Sylvia Terrell were married in Clayton, New Mexico. On September 14, 1964, they happily welcomed their daughter, Jami Dawne.

Richard started out working as a Cementer for Allied Cementing. Then worked as an Engineer for Schlumberger Oil in Lybia, North Africa. Returning to Russell, Richard and Steve Thorton started the Star Acid Company. He was a member of the Trinity United Methodist Church, Russell Masonic Lodge #177, Isis Shrine and was a Camel Herder. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, sports especially football, and talking with his friends at the morning group at Meridy’s.

Richard’s surviving family include his wife of 62 years, Sylvia of the home; daughter, Jami Ganson; grandchildren, Kegann Jones (Bryan), Liam Ganson and Mike Gideon; great grandchildren, Beckett Lane Jones, Wescott Jones and Carson Jones; sisters, Virginia Wheeler and Karen Push; as well as, niece, Amy Dollison (Bill); great niece, Bailey Dollison; great nephew, Cody Dollison (Ali). All of whom he loved very much.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Carolyn Pickens and Bonnie Calbaun; and brother-in-law, Kenneth Pickens.

A Graveside Family Service will be held on May 21, 2026 in the Russell City Cemetery. The family has selected cremation. A Memorial has been established with the Shriners Hospitals For Children. Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.