Lawrence "Larry" Gene Newlin

Lawrence “Larry” Gene Newlin, 89, of Kokomo, Indiana, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, March 22, 2026. Born on May 10, 1936, in New London, Indiana, Larry lived a full life defined by hard work, loyal friendships, a love of the open road, and a deep devotion to his family.

Larry graduated from Western High School in Russiaville, Indiana in 1954 and went on to attend Purdue University, where he developed the technical skills that would shape his career. He joined Chrysler Corporation as a draftsman before advancing into management and vendor relations, where he traveled extensively across the country visiting the foundries and machine shops that supplied parts for Chrysler vehicle transmissions. Over those many miles and years, the vendors and craftsmen he worked alongside became some of his closest and most enduring friends — relationships he cherished and maintained long into his retirement. In all, Larry devoted a remarkable 46 years to Chrysler, retiring in 2001.

From his earliest childhood, Larry had a passion for Lionel trains, a love he nurtured and carried with him throughout his entire life, building a treasured collection along the way. That same hands-on spirit extended to his workshop, where he was a skilled and gifted woodworker, taking pride in the things he built and the craft he honed over many years.

Few things brought Larry as much joy as automobiles. His prized 1955 Ford Thunderbird was the crown jewel of his collection, earning him numerous trophies at car shows over the years and surrounding him with a community of fellow enthusiasts he truly cherished. He also loved spending time at his cottage and out on the water, boating on Lake Shafer. An adventurous spirit, Larry enjoyed traveling with his dear friend and partner, Ruth Ford, and completed the Mackinaw Bridge Walk on several occasions — a tradition he embraced with characteristic enthusiasm. He was also a proud and passionate fan of Purdue Athletics, always ready to cheer on the Boilermakers.

Larry was preceded in death by his father, Eugene Morris Newlin; his mother, Minerva Opal (Roth) Newlin; his sister, Marilyn (Newlin) Lamb; his brother-in-law, Robert Lamb; his niece, Sheri Lynne (Lamb) Kiser; his son, Anthony “Tony” Lawrence Newlin; and his dear friend and partner, Ruth Ford.

He is survived by his four sons, Jon Newlin and his wife Julie of New London, Indiana; Jeff Newlin and his wife Christine of Atlanta, Georgia; Mike Newlin of Birmingham, Alabama; and Chad Newlin of Buffalo, Indiana. He is also survived by eight beloved grandchildren: Nicholas and Natalie Newlin (children of Jon and Julie); Henry, Mary Beth, and William Newlin (children of Jeff and Christine); Ella Newlin (daughter of Mike); and Nathanial and Hannah Newlin (children of Chad); as well as his nieces, Joanna (Lamb) Turner and Velda (Lamb) Kughen.

Larry Newlin was a man who took great joy in the things he built, the cars he drove, the trains he collected, and the people he loved. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A private graveside service will take place in New London Cemetery. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 4 pm to 7 pm on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Stout & Son Funeral Home, 200 E. Main St., Russiaville. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, heart.org, in Larry’s memory. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.stoutandson.com.

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