CASSIE JOY NEWMAN

On Nov. 27, 1980, she was born to Barry and Linda (Christian) Rondeau. Throughout a 13-year battle with cancer, Cassie smiled, laughed and lived every day to the fullest. She was truly a miracle that provided hope and inspiration to all. On Aug. 25, 2012, Cassie married Thomas Newman. In true Cassie fashion, they were united in an outdoor ceremony at her grandparents, “The Christian’s Strawberry Farm,” complete with fireworks. On Aug. 14, 2014, Cassie brought their little miracle, Riley Ray Newman, into this world, Cassie poured her laughter, her heart, her spirit and her love of life into her little “mini me”.

Cassie graduated from Alpena High School and Northwood University with a dual Bachelor’s degree in accounting and business management. Cassie began her career at First Federal of Northern Michigan, then joined Besser Credit Union as a mortgage loan specialist. After Riley joined their family, she changed careers and worked at Davita Dialysis, where she remained until she made the decision to become a full-time mother to Riley. She wanted to make sure she spent every moment available making memories with her family. Cassie excelled at all she did.

Cassie is survived by her husband, Thomas; daughter, Riley Ray; parents, Barry Rondeau and Linda (Robert) Kelley; siblings, Nolan Rondeau, Luke Rondeau, Amanda Rondeau; father-in-law, Thomas (Jennie) Newman; mother-in-law, Lynn Abbott; three sisters-in-law, Rachael (Adam) Bourque, Elizabeth (John) Kaitting, Taylor (Jeremy) Stoner; special nieces, Avarie and Allie Rondeau; nieces and nephews, Oliver Corwin, Taryn, Zach, Finn, Ryer, Jaclyn, Alaina, Isabella; grandmother, Joy Christian; godparents, Gerald (Pete) and Vickie Rondeau; special friend, Kathy Andrews; her family and friends from the Res/Co-op; numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. She is also survived by a large network of friends that stretch across many states, for once you met Cassie, she became your friend for Life.

Cassie was preceded in death by her grandparents, Allen Christian and Lawrence and Clara Rondeau.

Memorial visitation will take place Saturday at Living Hope Church from 3 p.m. until the Celebration of Life Service at 6 p.m. with Pastor Lee Blanchard officiating. Arrangements have been handled by the Bannan Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family.