Allen George Newgard

A memorial gathering to celebrate the life of Allen Newgard will be held Saturday, May 6, 2017 from 2 - 6 PM at the Phoenix Banquet Center in Milaca.  The Siemers-Hakes VFW Post #10794 of Milaca will provide military honors at 4 PM. Allen Newgard, age 50, of Milaca, passed away April 27th after a long courageous battle with colon cancer. He passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family. He went home to be with his mother, Marilyn, in heaven and his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Allen is survived by wife Debra, son Steven Newgard and grandson Cole, son Matthew Newgard,  step-son Josh Squier and wife Heidi, stepson Andrew Squier, father Dennis Newgard, sister Roxanne (Newgard) Gerads and brother in-law Jim Gerads, nephew Jesse Gerads, niece Emily Gerads, adopted mother Bev Ferdelman (his Mom’s best friend) and just like a brother, cousin Roundie. Allen was a great husband, father, son, brother, uncle and grandfather. He was the most genuine, compassionate and caring person.  He was born in St. Paul, Minnesota on December 6, 1966 to Dennis and Marilyn (Johnson) Newgard. He moved to Milaca in 1973, and graduated from Milaca High School in 1985. Allen went into the Navy in 1985 and earned sergeant status. Allen served in the Navy for four years and was recalled to active duty to serve in Desert Storm.  On January 15, 2005, Allen married the love of his life, Debra. This is when they began their journey together to raise four wonderful boys. On January 15, 2016, they went back to the same chapel in Las Vegas to renew their wedding vows.  Allen and Debra had a cabin in McGrath, MN for many years. They enjoyed four wheeling, snowmobiling and hunting with their boys, family and friends. It was a gathering place that Allen loved.  He was known to make the best breakfast for everyone in the morning. He took the time to drive the trails and help anyone in need; he always made sure he had whatever was necessary to help fellow wheelers. He carried gas, oil, plugs and an air compressor so he could help anyone who broke down on the trail.  If need be, he would even bring them back to the cabin to stay.  Allen had a true compassion and love for people, the outdoors, wildlife and new adventures. Allen was a proud employee of Veit Companies and was one of the most amazing backhoe operators. He always said how lucky he was to go to work and dig in a big sandbox all day. Allen was dedicated to his work, even when he had his chemo treatments. He would go to work with a smile on his face and take the time to help everyone and do the best job possible for Veit. Allen will always be remembered for his generous heart, great sense of humor and spirit. We know the fun meter will be pegged in heaven!! He believed in living life to the fullest.  Allen will be deeply missed by his family and friends.