Lance Cpl. Robert John “R.J.” Newton, 21, of Creve Coeur, died on Monday, Aug. 23, 2010, while supporting combat operations in Bastion, Afghanistan.
He was born on Aug. 21, 1989, in Naples, Fla., to Richard B. and Denise R. Wainscott Newton.
Surviving are his parents and one sister, Breanna Newton, all of Creve Coeur; paternal grandparents, Robert and Linda Newton of Naples, Fla.; maternal grandparents, John “Jack” and Anita Wainscott of Pekin; one aunt, Rebecca (Robert) Handy; two uncles, Randall Newton and David (Tina) Wainscott, all of Florida, and much extended family including many lifelong friends.
R.J. enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps shortly after graduating from East Peoria Community High School Class of 2007. He served with the 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division. He was the recipient of the Marine Good Conduct Metal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Afghanistan and Iraq Campaign Medals, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and NATO Medal – ISAF Afghanistan. R.J. posthumously received the Purple Heart Medal.
He took great pride in being a U.S. Marine, especially the day he wore his dress blues and took his sister, Breanna, to “Me and My Guy Dance.” R.J. loved all outdoor activities including hunting, rock climbing, and playing baseball. He also greatly enjoyed time spent just hanging out with family and friends or driving his 4x4 truck.
Funeral services will be Friday at Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in East Peoria. The Rev. Craig Hislope will officiate.
Visitation will be from 3–7 p.m. tomorrow at the funeral home. Burial will be in Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin, where full military rites will be accorded.
Memorials may be made to the R.J. Newton Memorial Fund.
His memorial website is available at www.deitersfuneralhome.com, where condolences may also be sent to the family.
