David J. Newgent
Oct. 6, 1952 – June 21, 2025

David Joe Newgent, 72, passed away from heart complications in his home near Cataract Falls on June 21, 2025.

Dave was born in Greencastle and lived a childhood worthy of a Hollywood coming-of-age movie. Residents of a certain age might remember his infamous left-handed knuckleball that struck them out at the baseball diamond. Or perhaps racing him in his Chevy Nova at the dragstrip (or backcountry road). He graduated from Greencastle High School and went on to study at Indiana State University.

Over the years, Dave worked as an industrial engineer to support his family, but his real love of life was found in nature. From the forests of Indiana and Canada to the waters of Alaska and the Florida Keys—you could find him there hunting, fishing, scuba diving, and sharing stories around a campfire.

Dave was preceded in death by parents Charles and Connie Newgent, brother James Newgent, and stepson Scott Kessler.

He is survived by his wife and greatest partner, Toni (Kessler) Newgent, brother Dick Newgent, two sons Chad Newgent and Christopher Newgent, and grandson Chad Newgent, Jr.

Dave leaves behind not only a loving family, but a community made better by his tireless efforts and passion for health, fitness, and outdoorsmanship. He dedicated much of his time to the YMCA, Chamber of Commerce, and Exchange Club of Owen County, and was a longtime member of the National Muzzleloading Rifle Association and the Linton Buck Creek Muzzleloaders Club. He served over a decade on the board of the Indiana Rural Health Association and was instrumental in bringing Indiana Health Centers to underserved rural communities around the state.

The family will be holding a private celebration of life in the future. Those wishing to honor Dave’s life are encouraged to support your local YMCA to help continue the work that gave him so much fulfillment in life.