Alfred K Newman Sr.

Alfred K. Newman, Sr., 94, of Kirtland, NM, went home to be with his Heavenly Father, on Sunday, January 13, 2019, in Bloomfield, NM. He was born on July 21, 1924, in Rehoboth, NM, to Winnie Tso and Willie Kien, born to Naanesht’ezhi Dine’e (Zuni Clan), born for Tsi’Naajinii (Black Streak Wood People).

Alfred enlisted with the United States Marine Corps on March 26, 1943 and became part of the 1st Battalion, 21st Marine Regiment, 3rd Division. Alfred was honorably discharged December 30, 1945 with the rank of Corporal. As a Navajo Code Talker, using the Navajo language, Alfred fought with fellow Marines in the Bougainville Campaign, the Battle of Guam and the Battle of Iwo Jima. After the war Alfred worked as a munitions inspector at Fort Wingate. Alfred married the love of his life on April 16, 1949, together they had 5 children. In the 60’s, Alfred moved his family to Kirtland, NM and was employed by Utah International Navajo Mine, until he retired after 25 years.

Alfred is preceded in death by parents, Willie Kien, Winnie Tso; stepfather, Andy Newman; brothers, Arthur Newman, Sr. and Andrew Newman, Jr.; sisters, Christine Henio, Bessie Spicer, Ruth Wright and Melvina Newman.

He is survived by his wife, Betsy E. Newman; sons, Alfred K. Newman, Jr., Marvin C. Newman, Donovan W. Newman and Kevin T. Newman; daughter, Cherylin F. Newman; stepmother, Esther G. Newman; brother, Henry Newman; sisters, Violet Nez, Marjorie Newman, Vivian Pacheco, Miriam Newman, Virginia Newman and Hazel Newman; 13 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, January 19, 2019, at 9:00 am, at the Maranatha Fellowship Christian Reformed Church, 618 W. Arrington St., Farmington, NM. A funeral service in honor of Alfred will follow at 10:00 am, on Saturday, January 19, 2019, also at Maranatha Fellowship Christian Reformed Church, conducted by Pastor David Byron. Burial to follow immediately, at Newman-Denetsone Family Cemetery, Whiskey Creek, NM. A reception will be on-going from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm, at Crystal Chapter House, Indian Service Rte. 12, Navajo, NM, 87328. (Please be advised: Road conditions due to snow, will likely require a 4-wheel drive vehicle, possible use of snow chains and shovels, to reach the cemetery. Those without such items can visit at the reception, during the burial.

Alfred’s family would like to express their sincere gratitude to all those who have given their condolences and support during this time. Your kindness will always be remembered.

Alfred’s care is entrusted to Cope Memorial Chapel of Farmington, 404 W. Arrington St., Farmington, NM, (505) 324-5142. Those who wish to send condolences may do so at www.serenityandcompany.com.