Ms. Karin Newton

Elegant, gracious, curious, insightful, and simply lovely in every way: that was our Karin. She left us March 5 in San Francisco, after a brief illness. She is survived by her loving partner, Douglas Hallinan, with whom she had 40 years of adventures; her siblings Janelle, Bruce (Laura) and Mark (Mary Jan); her nephews Keith and Scott; her stepmother Joyce Newton and her daughters Susan and Barbara. She is predeceased by parents Charles and Rita Newton. Thanks to a military upbringing, Karin was a world traveller at a young age. She graduated from Palo Alto High and San Francisco State, with a stint at UC Santa Cruz in between. A longtime resident of San Francisco’s Inner Sunset, she explored the City for 40 years, and knew its best walks, obscure neighborhood delights and secret eateries. She met Doug at his European-style coffee house, the Marigold (9th Ave.), in the 1970s, and brought a hint of glamour and mystery to the simple task of serving cappuccinos and light meals. Some of her dearest friends date to the Marigold’s heyday. Karin’s professional career took off at the legal publishing firm Matthew Bender (1984-2009). She had friends on both coasts thanks to her long and rewarding career there. Retirement brought new rewards: time to savor literature, music, long walks and fabulous meals with Doug, Janelle and friends. She had a ready list of books she wanted you to read; her recommendations were impeccable. The early globetrotting planted a seed, and she was always ready to plan new adventures. Highlights included trips to France, Italy, Turkey, Sicily, and Hawaii. Because she gave her all to those she loved, Karin was easy to spoil. Doug cooked all their meals, Janelle kept her company on long walks, Margie made her beautiful ceramic art, Lori and Bill made sure she had all the log-cabin time she needed, and her nephews learned at a young age that Aunt Karin expected them to kiss her royal hand (a joke they turned back on her as they grew into their Newton sense of humor). She brought the mien of a princess to our humble circle, and we loved her all the more for it. Services will be March 15, 11am, at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery, 1500 Mission Rd, Colma. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to International Rivers (www.internationalrivers.org).

Ms. Karin Newton

September 22, 1948 - March 5, 2014