Harley Newman

     Harley Newman, born in April 1933 to Charles and Opal Newman in Rock Rapids, Iowa,

peacefully passed away on Monday, 20 November 2023 at the age of 90. His life was a

testament to resilience, love, and dedication to family.

In the late 1930s, the Newman family relocated to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where Harley

forged lifelong friendships and, fatefully, met the love of his life, Floy. Their connection

blossomed over the years, leading to a beautiful marriage that endured until Floy's passing in

2015.

     Harley's journey took a turn in 1953 when he answered the call to duty and was drafted into the

US Army. Serving with honor in the Signal Corps, Harley played an important role in rebuilding

the telephone systems in Fukushima Prefecture, Japan. For his dedicated service, he was

awarded an honorable discharge and the National Defense Service Medal.

     Returning home from Japan in 1955, Harley and Floy embarked on a new chapter in their lives,

being wed in Sioux Falls and then moving to Los Angeles, where Harley began his lifelong

career in Aerospace, starting with North American Aviation. His work contributed to the success

of the Mercury Redstone, Apollo, and Space Shuttle missions.

     In the heart of their journey together, Harley and Floy were blessed with three children -- David,

Doni, and Daniel. As a father, Harley was a pillar of strength, wisdom, and unwavering support.

The family thrived under his guidance in the welcoming community of Costa Mesa, California,

where lasting memories were created and cherished.

     Harley's two years spent in Japan instilled him with deep interest and passion for Bonsai and

Suiseki, a passion which he renewed with vigor upon his retirement from his career in

aerospace. The friendships he forged in the California Bonsai and Suiseki communities brought

him great joy and buoyed him through the remainder of his life. His surviving family recognize

and value these friendships Harley forged.

     Harley Newman will be remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for his

warmth, generosity, and love for family and friends. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched

and the values he instilled in those around him.

     A celebration of Harley's life will be held on Saturday, December 9, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Harbor

Lawn Mortuary (1625 Gisler Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92626). In lieu of flowers, the family requests

donations be made in Harley’s honor to either SaveTheChildren.org or the Garden Grove

Church of the Nazarene (13411 Euclid Street, Garden Grove, CA; [email protected]).

     May his soul rest in eternal peace.