Hugh Henry Newell was born Feb. 9, 1917, in Venango, Neb., and died June 26, 2009.

He graduated from Hastings High School 1934. In 1939 he married Margaret L. Eihusen and they relocated to Seattle in 1939 where he built numerous churches and established his construction company. Retired in 1978 on Whidbey Island, he continued his woodworking skills and assisted his wife, Marge, with her Northwest Native American carving.

He was active in scouting, bow hunting, an avid fisherman, gardener and gemologist.

He is survived by sons Roger H. Newell and wife Nancy of Seattle, and Rick H. Newell and wife Jan of Edmonds; and daughter Diane L. Tompkinson of Coupeville. He also leaves behind six grandchildren and eight great- grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, July 19 at 2 p.m. at Whidbey Evangelical Free Church, 872 Plantation Drive on Whidbey Island, two miles south of Greenbank.