Paul Newgard, 66

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Paul Koehler Newgard of Polson, who left us far too soon on Nov. 29, 2025. Paul was born to Gerald and Karol Newgard and raised in Polson.

Surrounded by the beauty of Flathead Lake and the Mission Valley, he developed a strong love for the outdoors. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, shooting and riding motorcycles – especially when they took him somewhere remote and peaceful.

Paul studied business at MSU in Bozeman. With one semester remaining from graduation, he proudly transferred to the School of Hard Knocks, where he earned a master’s degree. He headed for greener pastures in Douglas, Wyo., working maintenance on oil rigs before moving to Elko, Nev., where he served as a millwright for Barrack Mining Company.

He became a high-level manager at Nevada Power in Las Vegas where he oversaw and managed maintenance outages. He was known for his strong work ethic, uncompromising standards, and his trademark reminder that “brass tacks were brass tacks.”

Never afraid to learn something new, Paul gained a reputation for being able to fix anything. After many years in Las Vegas, he set out to see the world. His managerial and mechanical skills opened doors across the globe, and he helped build power plants in places such as Panama, Mongolia and Saudi Arabia.

Paul was an avid collector. He knew the value of nearly every item he handled: he would have made a great pawn broker. He particularly liked Harley Davidsons, Chevy trucks and rare guns.

He was a treasured son, brother and uncle. Beneath his tough exterior was a heart of gold. He quietly helped friends in times of need and would literally give the shirt off his back. He was known for the practical jokes he played on friends and family, often laughing for days afterward at how clever he thought he was.

Paul had faith in Christ and salvation in God, and we take comfort knowing he is now enjoying Paradise with his mother, Karol, and his brother, Mark.

Paul is survived by his father, Gerald Newgard of Polson; his sisters, Gwen (Jim) Beyer of Gilbert, Ariz., and Amy Newgard of Ronan; his nephews, Jordan (Ashley) Beyer of Missoula and Luke (Alyssa) Beyer of Surprise, Ariz.; and his niece, Lauren (Karthik) Beyer-Godavarthi of Mesa, Ariz.

A private ceremony will take place at a later date. Memories and condolences may be sent to the family at lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com.

Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.