Michael E. Newman, affectionately known to friends and family as “Panhead,” 75, of Plainfield, IN, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2026, with his son and daughter by his side.
Michael was born on July 18, 1951, in Brooklyn, NY, to the late Everett "Bud" and Alice Newman. After graduating from San Fernando High School, he proudly enlisted in the U.S. Navy. Over a distinguished 23-year military career, he rose to the rank of Senior Chief as an Aviation Machinist Mate Air Warfare E-8.
Following his retirement from the Navy, Michael pursued higher education, enrolling in A&P school and earning his Bachelor’s degree in Aircraft Maintenance. His passion for the field led him back to the classroom, where he inspired the next generation as a teacher and ultimately served as the Director of Education for 14 years before his final retirement.
Outside of his professional and military achievements, Michael had a unique and vibrant passion for body art. He was happiest when he was adding to his extensive tattoo collection and traveling the country to attend various tattoo conventions. His dedication to the community and his striking ink earned him over 100 awards and trophies nationwide. Above all, Michael was best known for his quick wit, his sharp sense of humor, and his fierce, deep love for his family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Everett "Bud" and Alice Newman.
He is survived by his loving children, Michael E. Newman Jr. of Indiana, and Jessica A. Hyer and her husband Shawn of New York. He was a proud grandfather to his beloved grandchildren, Cael E. Hyer and Winry E. Hyer. He also leaves behind his devoted siblings: sisters Margaret Scarrot (Chuck) and family, Marilyn Belcher (Dana) and family, and Marlene Scarlett and family; and brothers Matthew Newman (Bea) and family, and Mark Newman (Janine) and family.
A Graveside Service with Full Honors will be held at 2:00 pm on September 25, 2026, at Crown Hill Funeral Home & Cemetery, 700 W. 38th St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46208.
After services conclude, the family asks that you join them to
celebrate Michael’s life at Buffalo Wild Wings in Plainfield (2683
E. Main Street Ste 117, Plainfield, IN, 46168).
In lieu of flowers, Michael requested that donations be made in
his name to Tunnel to Towers at t2t.org.
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