Bayfield resident Leon Newman was born July 18, 1962 in Maracaibo, Venezuela, to James and Louise Newman. He died on January 1, 2015, from a massive hemorrhagic bleed resulting from a collision. He was 52. Leon grew up in Dallas, Texas. He was a talented performer in stage productions in college and Dallas’ famed Theatre Three. His most recognized role was the master puppeteer of the man-eating plant, Audrey II, in a production of LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS. He also worked for an extended period of time for Stage Crafters in Dallas, Texas where his gift for set design was in constant demand for numerous productions. Leon was part of the national tour for the off-Broadway musical, DON’T GET GOD STARTED!, as Master Electrician and Stage Manager. He was a long-time friend and employee of Kraig Yaseen of Yaseen Design Studios in Durango, CO. Their collective creative genius has their fingerprint on specialty signage not only throughout Durango and the Four Corners, but across 38 states. Leon was a member of First Baptist Church in Bayfield, where the memorial service was held Saturday, January 3, 2015. He is survived by his son Creede Walton Newman, daughter Irene Rose Newman, and their mother Roberta, all of Bayfield. Also, by his sister Kathy Lemons of Dallas, by his brother Don Newman of California, and by his parents Rev. James and Louise Newman of Bayfield. Leon was totally selfless in giving his time and energy to all who needed him.