Arthur Charles "Art" Newman, age 75, passed on to the greater life on Monday, October 12, 2020 at his Aurora home, with his wife and children by his side. Art remained the strong, bold and courageous man we knew during a furious 5 month battle with cancer.
Born on Oct 31, 1944 in Euclid Ohio, Art was the only child of Earl and Louise (Fioritto) Newman. Art was a graduate of Euclid High School and Baldwin Wallace College, earning his Bachelors Degree in Music Education. For a brief time, he toured with popular recording artists of that time before becoming a music teacher for the North Olmsted school system. Art married while in college, and lived in Berea for many years, raising his son Eric, and daughter, Jessica. With a growing family, he opted to try for a career in banking. He started as a teller at Central National Bank and within several years rose to VP of Retail Banking. His favorite assignment was managing the Public Square branch office. Art won various awards at the bank and was leader of the bank's Central Singers, a full choir that performed at many civic events. In those years, Art continued performing and was a vital part of the band Carnival, and the Sam Terri Quartet.
Art met Marsha Dianna Sacid, a professional vocalist and event planner, in 1988 while attending a hotel function. They quickly discovered a common background in music and a common goal. They created the Art Company Orchestra, a 12-piece band for upscale private parties. They were married in 1990, and made Aurora their home. Marsha launched The Perfect Choice Wedding Planning in 1991, and combined with the orchestra they produced elegant events together for 30 years.
In 1983 Art left Central Bank and transitioned to selling bank technology.While working for National Semiconductor/ Datachecker, Art introduced a new scan system and sold the first scan system in Ohio. Later he transitioned to selling mainframe computers. In 1991, while working for Hitachi Data Systems, Art was named top salesman worldwide.
Art worked for EMC Corp. from 1993-1999, as a Senior Account Executive on international accounts and exceeded sales goals. Art won numerous awards in recognitionfor his efforts in migrating of data centers.
During his retirement, Art continued his love of music as a substitute music teacher in the Bedford, Streetsboro, and Aurora schools. He also taught private lessons at Warren Henry Music in Chagrin Falls.
Art was known for telling stories, and loved a good joke. He had a big laugh, and loved to make others laugh. He had a passion for animals, photography, movies, cooking and was an avid reader. A former board member of the Cleveland Jazz Orchestra, Art was a long time member of The Church in Aurora and resident of Walden.
Arts true gift was his ability to mentor and encourage all those around him. He had the ability to bring out the best in you, whether in music or in life. If you needed his help, he was always there in a big way. Art was larger than life.
Art leaves behind his devoted wife of 30 years, Marsha Newman; Children: Eric (Erin) of Austin TX, grandsons Colton, Ethan, Adam and Conner; Daughter Jessica (Joe) Decaro of Bainbridge OH, grandsons, Joshua and Jay; Brother- in -law of Lloyd (Louene) Sacid; Sister-in Law Betty (Dale) Brand; Nephew of Gloria Fugo. He leaves special cousins who were like siblings in his life. Art had many friends and left an indelible mark on many.
In order to provide safe distancing, a Private Memorial Service will be held on Saturday Oct 31, 2020 at The Church in Aurora where Rev. Kevin Horak and Pastor Derek Hickman will officiate. Music and remembrances at 10:30 a.m. with Services at 11:00 a.m.
In Lieu of Flowers, please consider the needs of the family during these uncertain times.
Those wishing to make a charitable gift may contribute to: The Church in Aurora, 146 S. Chillicothe Rd, Aurora Ohio 44202 or Cuyahoga County Animal Shelter, 9500 Valley View Dr., Valley View, OH 44125.
ARRANGEMENTS BY FIORITTO FUNERAL SERVICE OF NORTHEAST OHIO www.FiorittoFamily.com