Patrick James Newell died on June 15 after a brief struggle with cancer. He was 68.
Newell was born in Whittier, Calif. on March 5, 1937. After graduating high school in Arizona, he enlisted in the Air Force and served during the Korean War. Newell returned to Southern California after the war and began his career as owner of one of the original Honda motorcycle dealerships in the United States.
Later, Newell became a paving contractor, establishing his own company. After many years of contracting, he started to devote his time to volunteerism. Newell was active in the Lions Club, achieving the title of district president.
Newell’s family said he was an adventurer who loved to race speedboats and motorcycles. He was also an avid world traveler with a special affinity for Africa.
Newell is survived by his longtime companion Hiroko Forrest; daughter Jessica Newell-Gorman and her husband Andrew; daughter Lisa, a Malibu veterinarian, and her husband Mark; son Darrell, granddaughter Eris; aunt Donna Heyer and several nieces and nephews.
A memorial celebration will take place on Saturday at 1 p.m. at the American Legion Post 48, located at 2639 Wagon Wheel Road in Oxnard. In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be sent to: Livingston Memorial Hospice, 1996 Eastman Ave. Ste. 101, Ventura, CA 93003.