**Biography of Michael "Mike" Edward Newton** Born on May 7, 1944, in the sun-kissed Santa Monica, California, Mike Newton arrived in a world that was soon to be dazzled by the inquisitive mind and generous spirit of this remarkable man. Raised in a tight-knit family, Mike developed a knack for humor and a love for learning that would define his life. He attended Saint Monica's High School and later earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Loyola University of Los Angeles in 1966. Mike's passion for education didn’t fade; he pursued PhD studies at Georgetown University and continued to expand his intellectual horizons through various courses at distinguished institutions, including Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Arizona. Mike's professional journey began in Washington, DC, where he used his formidable skills as an Economic Forecaster for the Appalachian Regional Commission from 1966 until 1980. He transformed numbers into narratives, foresaw trends, and crafted strategies that ensured progress for many communities. From 1980 to 1994, he lent his insight to the Tennessee Valley Authority as a Fossil Fuels Planner, and later continued his forecasting endeavors with several utility companies across the country, including Citizen’s Utilities and AEPCO, until his retirement in 2011. Mike's commitment to service and excellence was recognized through 15 years with the Tennessee Valley Authority and nearly a decade with AEPCO, leaving an indelible mark in his field. Outside of work, Mike was a Renaissance man who reveled in the esoteric. Whether it involved a quirky roadside attraction, a hidden overlook, or a museum dedicated to the strangely bizarre, he was always ready to hit the road for adventure. With an insatiable curiosity for science, art, and history, he could debate politics and economics with fervor, though he preferred to remain a casual observer rather than a participant in the fray. Mike had a unique personality that shone through in his love for all things mysterious and dramatic. A devoted fan of British dramas and mysteries, he enjoyed cozy evenings with his mother, diving into intricate plots and unexpected twists. His love for “Doctor Who” and “The Lord of the Rings” fuelled spirited discussions and delightful family time, proving that the best adventures often come in the form of escapism within the flickering glow of a television screen. A connoisseur of fine spirits, Mike took great pleasure in a good brandy or scotch while indulging in the thought-provoking sounds of Iron Butterfly. His love for reading and the intricate narratives of military history came alive during vacations that were almost exclusively road trips to explore the fabric of America's past. Mike’s kindness and generosity were evident to everyone who crossed his path. He was known for his considerate nature and would often light up a room with his sense of humor, sharing delightfully bad jokes that somehow always managed to elicit laughter. His children and family members can undoubtedly recount stories through the laughter and warmth he brought into their lives. He is survived by his beloved wife, Suzanne Newton; son, Peter Newton; brother, James Newton; sister, Marylin Berger; niece Sarah Newton and nephews Joel Newton, Nicholas Berger, and niece Amanda Butz, along with Katy Berger. Mike's journey on Earth concluded on May 3, 2025, in Tucson, Arizona, leaving behind a legacy of curious exploration, laughter, and boundless love. A ceremony honoring his life will take place at Bring's Broadway Chapel in Tucson on May 28th at 11 AM, followed by a celebratory gathering at La Mariposa, where stories will be shared, laughter rekindled, and memories cherished from 12 PM to 4 PM. In life, Mike sought the unique and the extraordinary; let his departure be celebrated in the same spirit. In memory of Mike Newton—a brilliant mind, a kind soul, and a steadfast friend to those lucky enough to know him.