Donald C. "Chip" Newman Jr.

Donald C. “Chip” Newman Jr., 76, of Mishawaka, Indiana, passed away on March 26, 2026, surrounded by his wife and two children.

He was born on July 10, 1949, to Diane (Helmick) Brown and Donald C. Newman.

Chip grew up in his family’s business, Don’s Charcoal House. He often spoke fondly of his years at the restaurant with his grandparents. It was there that he became the best dishwasher and grill master around, while also learning the value of hard work and developing the drive to succeed.

Chip attended LaSalle High School, graduating in 1968, where he excelled in track and football. His name still remains on the record board for pole vault, and he was always quick to tell you how fast he could run the 40-yard dash. After high school, he attended Hanover College, continuing his football career. He was a member of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity, where he affectionately earned the nickname “Doggie.” After college, Chip was drafted into the NFL, playing for the New York Jets and the Chicago Bears. Following his football career, he spent more than 40 years working in employee benefits, with Bath Associates, Acordia, Wells Fargo, and USI.

In 1976, while home for a brief Christmas visit, Chip was set up on a blind date with the love of his life, Pam (Heck) Newman. That night, he returned home and told his sister Lynne, “That’s the woman I am going to marry.” And that he did. The two were engaged soon after and married on June 24, 1978.

He is survived by his wife, Pamela J. Newman; his children, Donald “Corey” Newman III and Chelsea (Casey) Kaniewski; and his six grandchildren, who knew him as “Pops” - Charlie, Eloise, and Henry Newman, and Josie, Will, and Louie Kaniewski. He is also survived by his siblings, Lynne Peddycord and Rick (Francee) Newman; his mother-in-law, Darlene Heck; and many beloved in-laws, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his father-in-law, Jim Heck; and his sister, Jan Newman.

Chip was an avid golfer. He and Pam were members of Morris Park Country Club for over 40 years. In 2019, he did something he always said he would never do—he “stuck his feet in the sand” and purchased a condo in Fort Pierce, Florida, where they became members of Meadowood. They spent their winters there enjoying endless rounds of golf and forming lasting friendships.

Alongside a successful career, Chip served on several boards, including the Summit Club, Chamber of Commerce, Morris Park Country Club, LOGAN, and St. Joseph High School. One of his proudest moments was presenting both of his children with their high school diplomas.

How do you sum up the life of someone who was truly larger than life? Chip had a way of lighting up a room and making you feel like you were the only person in it. He never hesitated to wrap you in a hug, give you a kiss, and tell you he loved you. He was always drawn to the dance floor—especially if Earth, Wind & Fire or Luther Vandross was playing. He loved his people fiercely and will be deeply missed by so many.

We find peace in knowing he is playing his final 18, with a cigar in his mouth.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice House - 501 Comfort Place, Mishawaka, IN 46545 or First Tee of Michiana - https://indianagolffoundation-bloom.kindful.com.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.  Palmer Funeral Home – Welsheimer North Chapel is assisting the family with their obituary.  Online condolences may be left at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com