Charles L. Newman

Charles "Chuck" Leroy Newman of San Marcos, Texas, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2025 at the age of 92.

He was born on March 11, 1933, in San Pedro, California, the son of Jacob “Lee” Lafayette and Maude Louise Newman. Chuck was married to LaVel Robbins Newman until her passing in 1995, and later was blessed to share 27 years with his wife, Donna Vail Newman.

After graduating from the United States Naval Academy in June 1955, where he studied Engineering, Chuck proudly served his country in the United States Navy in the Submarine Service. Chuck retired as a Lieutenant Commander after twenty years of active and reserve duty. Earning his Dolphins was one of his proudest achievements, and the positions of Operations Officer and Navigator were his favorite duties. This time in the service shaped his sense of discipline, duty, and perseverance—qualities that carried through every stage of his life.

Chuck went on to dedicate much of his engineering career in the food industry, focusing on the operations and manufacturing of rice. His work took him overseas to many countries, where he developed practical solutions to complex issues and built strong professional relationships. He was respected for his integrity, work ethic, and leadership. He then launched a third career as a high school teacher in Uvalde, Texas. Beyond his career, he was involved in many philanthropic activities with his wife, LaVel, during his time in Houston; for example, Zoo Friends of Houston. Chuck helped with the fundraisers by designing and executing the platforms, along with lighting and carrying out the themes for the Zoo Balls. This allowed Chuck to use his superb creative and artistic talents. In addition, he took an active role in politics, serving as campaign manager in several successful congressional races.

But his greatest pleasure was his family, and he participated in all the extracurricular activities from sports to band to Girl Scouts. He had the opportunity to move the entire family to Brazil for work, and made sure every inch of South and Central America was explored to create memories of a lifetime and ignite a love of travel.

In his later years, one of his greatest delights was traveling with Donna, as they visited 108 countries. He was a true explorer, enjoyed a good curry, a great bottle of wine, and was always planning new cruising adventures with Donna. Chuck always loved to take her for a spin on the dance floor! He never planned to get old and one of his mottos was “Don’t let the old man in!”

He is survived by his wife, Donna Vail Newman; his children Brad (Anna), Darian (David), Valerie (Lisa), and Shannon (Becky); four grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his first wife, LaVel and his parents.

Chuck will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, as well as a man whose love of family, dedication to service, and lifelong pursuit of knowledge left a lasting mark on all who knew him.