Rod Newton, 67

Rod Newton, 67, of Troy passed away on May 25, 2021, after a lengthy battle with brain cancer. He was raised in Sandpoint, Idaho.

He graduated from Sandpoint High School in 1972 and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Idaho. He began working full time for GTE, and it was during this time, while working in a hole locating a phone line, that he met his future wife, Kris.

They wed in September 1977 and added two sons and a daughter to the family over the next few years. In 1985, they moved to Troy, where he continued working in telephone communications until his retirement in 2015.

Rod was happiest when surrounded by family. He enjoyed telling stories to get people laughing, spending time on the floor playing with grandkids and sneaking treats to his granddogs. Rod also loved hunting, fishing, raising birds, gardening and visiting with his countless telephone customers over his 39-year career.

Rod is survived by his wife, Kris; children, Melanie, Darin (Rebecca) and Neil (Robyn); brothers, Skip (Helen) and David (Ann); grandchildren, Kira, Seth, Eyrie and Cassin.

In remembrance of Rod, in lieu of cards or flowers, his family requests that you donate to a local youth sports organization.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are by Schnackenberg Funeral Home in Libby. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.schnackenbergfh.com.