Frances Ruth (Nickel) Newman passed away peacefully at her home in Clifford, surrounded by her family, on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, in her 85th year. Wife of the late Gerald Newman. Mother of Douglas & Jane Newman of Elora, Rosemary Newman & Blair Wightman of Clifford, Garfield & Laura Gini-Newman of Caledon East, Gail & Greg Molloy of Holland, Michigan, and Kevin & Elisabeth Newman of Paisley. Grandmother of Andrew & Eva, Scott, Kaela & Dan, Ian & Elena, Megan, Alexander & Sarah, Benjamin & Valeria, Mathew & Amanda, Geoffrey & Deanna, Nikita, Conor & Kelsey, Shannon & Adrian, Colton & Cait, and Dexter & Marnie, and great-grandmother of 9. Sister of Bernice Binkley of Clifford, and Douglas Nickel of Mount Forest, and sister-in-law of Verna Nickel, Faye Binkley, Keith & Wendy Newman, Sharon Lett & Harlen Whetham, Dale Newman, Lloyd Newman & Cathy Cybulskie, Bonnie & Frank Mantler, and Elaine Newman. Predeceased by her parents Clayton & Gertrude (Askett) Nickel, infant son Christpher, sister Margaret Weber & husband Russell, brother Carl Nickel, and brother-in-law Irvin Binkley. Frances Newman (nee Nickle), our mother, was so much more than first impressions. While she could seem very shy and introverted to those who did not know her, to those who did, she was witty, well-read and a fountain of wisdom. She had a sharp mind and a keen intellect that was on display when she engaged in conversation or offered thoughtful advice to her children and grandchildren. Mom was an accomplished card player, a top-notch crokinole player, and an all-round lover of games. Mom was everything a child needed to grow up in a secure and loving home. She was patient, kind, selfless and always her children’s biggest fan. Perhaps most importantly, she modelled on a daily basis the power of kindness and compassion. She gave endlessly to her community, her neighbours and especially her family. While our dad built a successful business, mom was his constant supporter keeping the books, keeping dad well-looked after and dealing with his many clients. Mom was so proud of the many accomplishments of her children and grandchildren, but often failed to realize our successes were her successes. Her love and devotion to all of us allowed us to develop the courage to fly and a moral compass that has guided us through our lives. Our mother’s life journey has come to an end, but she lives on in the hearts and actions of each of us. Her selfless dedication to her family will be forever treasured. A private family service was held on Friday, September 20, 2024, with interment in Harriston Cemetery. Memorial donations to Parkinson Society would be appreciated, and may be made through the Hardy-Lee Funeral Home, Harriston. Online condolences may be left at www.hardyleefuneralhome.com
