Robert E. Newport, 85, Self-taught banjo and organ player

He was born November 26, 1918 in Warrensville, Ohio and moved to Avon Lake in 1951, coming from Cleveland.

Bob was employed as a salesman for Phillips Products, retiring in 1981. He was a member of Harding Concordian Masonic Lodge #345 and the Avon Lake Kiwanis Club. He was also a founding member and past president of the Avon Lake Business Association (A.L.B.A.). He was a self-taught banjo and organ player and enjoyed entertaining his friends. He also loved to play cards.

Mr. Newport is survived by a sister: Thelma Overfelt of Moberly, Missouri and a niece.

He was preceded in death by his wife: Elaine "Pat"; a sister: Helen MacKay; two brothers: Vernon and Clayton Newport; and his parents: Albert F. and Elsie L. (nee Byers) Newport.

Private services will be held at Elmhurst Park Cemetery, Avon. Cremation handled by Busch Crematory. Arrangements handled by the BUSCH FUNERAL HOME, 163 Avon-Belden Rd., Avon Lake.

For more information, to view an on-line memorial or to send a condolence, go to www.buschfuneral .com.