Ronald "Ron" Lewis Newell

April 19, 1943 - January 15, 2021

Ronald “Ron” Lewis Newell Glens Falls, NY Ronald “Ron” Lewis Newell was born in Glens Falls, NY, on April 19, 1943, to Mabel “Eva” Newell and George Newell — the youngest of three children. He passed unexpectedly, at the age of 77, the evening of January 15, 2021, with his wife Jane Marcella “Martie” Newell by his side at his home in Glens Falls. Ron spent his youth growing up on Elm St. watching both his parents work full-time jobs, which instilled a deep work ethic that he carried with him throughout his life. After graduating from Glens Falls High School in 1961, Ron attended SUNY Oneonta. While in college, he met a feisty girl named Martie Rodick, who attended nearby Hartwick College. The college courtship between Ron and Martie grew into a relationship that lasted a lifetime. After graduating from college, the young couple drove south in a beat up Oldsmobile, so Ron could attend the University of Tennessee and obtain his law degree. He often said that he surprised himself and many friends by passing the New York bar examination on his first attempt. Ron started his legal career at the late John Hall’s legal practice in Warrensburg, NY in 1969, but his ambition soon drove him to open his own small practice in Glens Falls. While the practice struggled in its early years, it grew to be a respected firm in the community. Ron was eventually asked to be City Attorney for Glens Falls by Mayor Frank O’Keefe, a second career he held until his passing. At the same time, four Newell children were added to the family — Benjamin, Christopher, Rebecca and Seth. His hope was to make his children better than he was, encouraging them to compete in a variety of sports and pursue their passions. He was a common fixture in the cheering section at local swim meets and ski races — through the 1980s and 1990s. In more recent years, Ron spent time traveling, visiting grandchildren or hosting them at the family cabin on Lake George. Pa, Papa, Bepa, or Grandpa was always quick with a “tickle finger” or recruiting a young one to help with a task around the house. Never willing to rest for too long, Ron also found a third career by purchasing and renovating the McEchron House on Ridge Street. He restored the historical landmark with the help of many talented local tradespeople, which eventually housed his daughter and son-in-law’s restaurant, Morgan & Company. For those who knew Ron, his love for his family, quick wit, connection to the community, and loyalty to others defined him. His departure leaves a void in many hearts of those around him. Ron is survived by his wife of 53 years, brother (Eli “Bud” Newell), all four children and their respective spouses — Dawn Newell, Sharon Newell, Leslie Schneider, and Steven Butters — and five grandchildren. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Chapman Museum in Glens Falls, NY. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, services will be postponed at this time. Arrangements are in the care of Singleton Sullivan Potter Funeral Home, 407 Bay Rd. Queensbury, NY 12804.