William D. McEwen, 68, of Gilbert, Ariz., passed away at his home on May 24, 2012.

He was born Sept. 15, 1943, in Milan, Mo., to Willie and Velma McEwen. The family moved to Newton when Bill was in fourth grade. Bill graduated from Newton Senior High School in 1961. In September of that year he enlisted in the United States Navy and served three years, returning to Newton in 1964.

In November of 1966 he was united in marriage to his wife, Barbara. They had two daughters, Melissa and Megan. Bill owned and operated McEwen Welding for 35 years and enjoyed using his skillful and creative talents to build street rods. He was a member of the Iowa Streetrod Association and enjoyed playing golf with friends.