Newton William Henson

Newton William Henson, 63, of Bourbon, MO, left this world just one day shy of his 64th birthday, on January 2, 2024, at Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan, MO. Born on January 3, 1960, to Marvin and Frances (Southard) Henson in St. Louis, Missouri, Newton's life was marked by dedication, humor, and a deep love for the great outdoors.

Growing up in St. Ann, MO, Newton attended school and eventually graduated from Rittenour High School in 1978, carrying with him the lessons and friendships that would last a lifetime. In his early years, Newton honed his skills as a machinist while working for John Harders, a job that not only taught him precision but also the value of hard work.

Seeking adventure and change, Newton moved to Colorado for three years, where he worked with family and embraced the mountain lifestyle. However, the call of home was strong, and in 1986 he returned to the Japan area, where he began a long and fulfilling career with Ace Manufacturing in Sullivan, MO. For 36 years, he was a dedicated employee, known for his reliability and attention to detail.  He was able to attain great knowledge and skill in computer programming during his tenure.

It was during this time that Newton met Julie Cox, who would become the love of his life. The two married on March 5, 1988, forming a partnership that was to be blessed with joy, laughter, and two wonderful children, Samantha and Eric. Newton was a devoted husband and father, always putting the needs of his family before his own.

Newton's interests were as varied as they were passionate. An avid outdoorsman, he loved hunting, fishing, and camping. He had a strong affinity for woodworking, a hobby he hoped to pursue in retirement. Newton also found peace in gardening and took great pleasure in barbequing with family and friends, creating moments that would turn into cherished memories for all who were lucky enough to be present.

Some of Newton's fondest memories were of family fishing trips to Lake Taneycomo, where the serene environment and the thrill of the catch brought him immense happiness. A highlight of his life was a hunting trip to Canada where he achieved the remarkable feat of killing a bear, a testament to his skills as an outdoorsman.

Though he may have been perceived as having a grumpy disposition, those who knew Newton understood that beneath that exterior was a super kind-hearted man with a good sense of humor. He was a quiet thinker, often lost in thought, but when he spoke, his words were imbued with kindness, intelligence, and wit.

He is survived by loving wife, Julie; their children:  Samantha Wolf and spouse, Ashley of Maple Grove, MN and Eric Henson of Bourbon, MO; his mother, Frances Henson of Cuba, MO; a special niece, Mia Gebhart; five siblings:  Christine Campbell and husband, Steve of Cuba, MO, Anthony “Tony” Henson and wife, Michelle of Owensville, MO, Marvin Henson and partner, Lori Mabe of Cuba, MO, Mary Fisher and husband, Doug of Centralia, MO and Lawrence Henson and wife, Carol Sue of Vandalia, MO; and numerous nieces, nephews, sisters and brothers-in-law, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, Marvin; an infant brother, Michael; and a niece, Johana Campbell.

Funeral Mass will be 11:00 AM, Tuesday, January 9, 2024 at Holy Martyrs Catholic Church with Father Noah Waldman celebrating.  Interment will follow at Holy Martyrs Cemetery.

Visitation will be 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Monday, January 8,2024 at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan.

Memorial Contributions may be given in Newton’s memory to the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation and/or the Holy Martyrs Cemetery.

Friends may share condolences online with Newton’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan, MO.