Michael E. New Sr.
CHESAPEAKE—Michael Eugene New Sr., 55, died July 15, 2009, in a Portsmouth hospital.
A native of Portsmouth, he was predeceased by his mother, Catherine “Kitty” New, and father-in-law, Eugene “Pete” Respess.
A National Registered EMT/paramedic for more than 20 years, he was a past captain and life member of Bennett’s Creek Rescue Squad, and a former deputy with the Chesapeake Sheriff’s Department.
Mr. New spent many years on the Chesapeake Jubilee Planning Committee, volunteered with many national, state and local organizations.
He was a local short track racecar driver at both Langley and Southampton Motor Speedways.
As an avid NASCAR fan, we know he is on his victory lap after crossing the finish line and receiving the checkered flag. He retired as a medic captain with the City of Chesapeake Fire Department.
His involvement in the construction of Chesapeake’s Emergency Medical Services system, beginning in the earlier 1980s, is the foundation of the EMS service provided throughout the city today.
He was instrumental in developing policies, procedures, protocols, and guidelines at the state and local levels.
He was recognized by the State Office of Emergency Medical Services, Tidewater EMS Council, and City of Chesapeake, as well as nominated numerous times for the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Emergency Medical Services.
His vision and commitment to the department helped to bring in quality people and equipment. Mike was a supervisor, instructor, mentor, counselor, and most of all friend to many.
Survivors include his wife, Gail Respess New; father, Eugene “Gene” L. New; one son, Michael E. New Jr.; one daughter, Margaret Catherine “Meg” Mathias; four siblings, Theresa New Pond, Wanda New Smith, Timothy L. New, and Christie New Craig; two grandchildren, Makayla L. New and Michael E. “Trey” New III; mother-in-law, Frances K. Respess; numerous nieces and nephews; and many loyal friends, co-workers, and extended family.
A funeral will be held Sunday at 2 p.m. in Pinecrest Baptist Church, Portsmouth, by the Rev. Tom Potter.
Burial with Fire Department Honors will be in Meadowbrook Memorial Gardens.
The family were to receive friends at Sturtevant Funeral Home, Portsmouth Blvd. Chapel, Saturday from 6 to 8 p.m. and other times at the family’s residence.
In light of his love of children and NASCAR, in lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be sent to Victory Junction Gang Camp, www.victoryjunction.org.
Online condolences may be made at www.SturtevantFuneralHome.com.