Charles B. Newton

Charles Baxter "Baxter" Newton, age 99, passed away peacefully on March 28, 2015. Baxter was born on February 19, 1916, in Port Washington, WI, to Lulu Shaw and Charles Newton. He lived in several upper Midwest towns during his childhood, often returning to his family farm in Bangor, WI. After attending high school in Wauwatosa, WI, he earned Bachelor's and Master's degrees in agriculture from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, followed by service during World War II as an Army food inspector.
Baxter married Mary Kathryn "Kay" Jones on September 22, 1945, and had a long career with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture. He also partnered with farmers across Wisconsin and Iowa in raising capons, frequently drafting the help of his six children.
Baxter modeled values of frugality, self-reliance, and moderation throughout his life. He had a sly and self-deprecating sense of humor and found joy in simple pleasures such as fresh raspberries and corn, sharp cheddar cheese, homemade pie, Babcock Hall ice cream, ball games in the backyard, walks around the neighborhood, and time with family and friends. He had a soft spot for babies and toddlers, which endeared him to his grandchildren. In his later years, he particularly enjoyed meals at the Pancake House, naps on his blue couch, and spinning tales of life in the first half of the twentieth century.
Baxter was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kay, his parents, sister Mary, and brother Jim. He is survived by his sister, Martha Merkt, of Wauwatosa, and his children, Jim (Carol Klukaczewski) of Middleton, Mary (Jim Sanger) of Wauwatosa, Peter of Carmichael, CA, Liz of Milwaukee, Margy (Ray Tenebruso) of Cottage Grove, and John (the late Monica) of Madison. Also surviving are grandchildren Grace Newton, Elizabeth, Susan, Peter, and John Sanger, Lilly (Jeff Wharton), Evan (Holly Elsberry), Louis, and Julia Tenebruso, and great-grandchildren Jaylen Wharton and Emma and Sophia Tenebruso.
Special thanks to Indian Hills and Oakwood neighbors who visited Baxter regularly, the Senior Helpers whose friendship and care allowed him to live independently, and Agrace Hospice which assured comfort at home during his final days.
Baxter and Kay were a wonderfully-matched couple during their 69 years of marriage, and the time since Kay's passing in January was difficult for Baxter. We will celebrate their lives together with a memorial service on Saturday, July 11, at Bethany United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to Bethany United Methodist Church, 3910 Mineral Point Road, Madison, WI 53705; Oakwood Foundation, 6201 Mineral Point Road, Madison, WI 53705; Agrace Hospice, www.Agrace.org; or a charity of your choice.