Brian Earl Newton

Brian Earl Newton, known to many as “Newt” or “Barney” passed away peacefully on May 27, 2026.

He leaves behind his sons Matthew and Ryan (Corinne), his grandchildren Rowan and Letta, his partner Diane Gilbertson, family including his extended family, the Forsythe’s, many good friends, and his fellow OPPA veterans.

Brian was born on October 4, 1944, in Kirkland Lake, Ontario, to Earl and Alice Newton. Brian spent his formative years growing up in Kapuskasing, Ontario alongside his brother Randall. In 1972, Brian joined the Ontario Provincial Police as a Provincial Constable and went on to proudly serve for 30 years, mostly in Kenora. He was a natural in the role—always ready to strike up a conversation, whether with a friend or someone he had just met. More often than not, you could find him in a coffee shop, where he built strong connections in the community, listening, talking, and sharing stories around the table of knowledge. If you ever had the opportunity to sit at the table with Brian, you knew you were in for a few good stories—and a visit that would never be rushed.

Brian loved Lake of the Woods and everything it had to offer, but when winter came, he made his way to his favourite place—Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. He first discovered it at 19 and returned year after year. And no matter where he was, you could count on him finding a café, getting to know people, and wouldn’t you know it, sharing a story.

A Celebration of Life will be held on July 10, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Brown Funeral Home (temporary location: 510 Second Street South, Kenora – First Baptist Church).

All are welcome to attend and celebrate the life of Newt.