David L. Newman

David Lee Newman, 65, of Eldorado, Illinois, passed away peacefully on December 22, 2024, at 1:45 p.m. at the Eldorado Nursing & Rehab Center after a courageous five-year battle with ALS.

Born on August 27, 1959, in Eldorado to the late Morry and Helen Newman, David was a proud graduate of Eldorado High School's Class of 1977. He pursued a life filled with creativity and passion, working as both a landscaper and a professional drummer. Over his remarkable career, he played more than a thousand shows and shared his love for music by teaching drum lessons.

David played in numerous bands throughout his life, including Friends of Peace, Boomerang, Nighthawk, Echo, Monkey Puzzle, Hat Trick, Soul Farmer, Old School Band, Eldorado Alumni Band and served as the backup drummer for The Hurd Brothers for many years. Despite the challenges ALS brought to his life, David remained determined to teach and even gave drum lessons to his grandniece. They would jam together when he was still able to play bass on the organ. Beyond music, he enjoyed football, hiking, and playing darts-activities that brought him joy and connection with others. This past summer, he rededicated his life to Christ and was baptized by minister and friend Becky Owens.

David is survived by his daughter Kelsea Lynn; three grandchildren, Ryder, Samuel and Paisley; his sister Becky Casey, six brothers Gary Barton, John Lusted, Monte Newman, Kevin Newman, and Wesley Newman; his nephew Robbie Beaver and grandniece Whitney Beaver; along with several other nieces and nephews. He is also fondly remembered by his lifelong best friends Mike McRoy and Stacey Alexander. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Delman Barton.

A celebration of David's life will be planned at a later date. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him and inspire others to live with the same passion he brought to his music and life.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of Southern Illinois, Eldorado Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, and Southern Cremation & Burial Services for their compassionate care during David's journey. 

Final arrangements were lovingly entrusted to Southern Cremation and Burial Services of Murphysboro, Illinois.