Robert Lee Newman, 101, of Ottawa, passed away on Friday, April 10, 2026 at his home surrounded by his family.
Services will be private. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Mueller Funeral Home in Ottawa.
Robert was born on December 11, 1924 in Chicago to Lee and Florence (White) Newman. He was a graduate of Riley High School in South Bend, IN and Purdue University Pharmacy School. Robert married Dorothy Cheatham on March 11, 1951 and have been happily married for 75 years. He opened Newman’s Rexall Drugstore in 1952 and operated for 28 years. Robert served three years of active duty in the US Navy during WWII and seven years in the reserves. He was a member of the OSB board for 30 years, Deer Park Country Club, American Legion, Masonic Lodge, Elks Lodge, Moose Lodge, First Presbyterian Church, Ottawa Chamber of Commerce, Past Chairman of the Ottawa Chapter Red Cross, Past member of Peoria District American Red Cross, Past Chairman of the Illinois Valley Pharmaceutical Association, Past member of the United Way, and a proud member of the Ottawa community.
He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Newman of Ottawa; three daughters, Lynn Newman, Laura (Cherie) Newman, Lisa (Tessa) Newman; three grandchildren, Kelsey Newman, Keith Budzowski, Kara (Ryan) Rutherford; six great-grandchildren, RJ, Billie, Corbyn, Reid, Ollie, and Murphy.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and one brother, Don Newman.
Memorials may be directed to the donor’s choice.
You may sign the online guestbook and share remembrances at www.MuellerFH.com. Mueller Funeral Home and Crematory 800 First Avenue, Ottawa, IL 61350 815-434-4433.