Levi Newland

Levi E. Newland, 17, of Portage, entered the arms of his Lord and Savior on Friday, July 17, 2026.

Born Nov. 30, 2008, to Steven and Sarah (Penny) Newland, Levi was the youngest in his family and was known for his infectious smile, unmistakable laugh and ability to make others feel seen and valued. He was strong, filled with vitality and curiosity for what life had to offer.

Levi had a gift for encouragement. He saw the best in people and believed in what they could become. Whether cheering on a teammate, challenging a sibling or offering a kind word to someone having a difficult day, he lifted up those around him.

He also had a gift for storytelling, a great sense of humor, and he could make anyone laugh. Levi approached life with curiosity, optimism and enthusiasm. Creative and innovative, he had an artist's mind and was lovingly known to some as "Little Levi."

From a young age, Levi loved sports and competition. He became an accomplished football, basketball, baseball and track athlete while at Portage Central High School. His teammates will remember his athletic ability, positive attitude and the friendships he built on every team.

Never one to stay still, Levi was independent and fearless, always eager to be involved in something meaningful or looking for his next adventure. Outside of school sports, he enjoyed running, working out, roller skating and taking on new athletic challenges. He also loved listening to music and could often be found with a song playing as he went about his day. Levi became dedicated to arm wrestling and found success at a young age. In addition, he participated in 4-H, proudly showing rabbits and chickens, was active in Boy Scouts and enjoyed landscaping, taking great pride in a well-manicured lawn. He worked hard in everything he did and found satisfaction in doing things well.

Levi was also very active in Youth for Christ ministries and valued the friendships and opportunities he found there. Like any other teenager, he struggled at times, but he would not miss an opportunity to share his faith in Christ with anyone who was interested. Through Youth for Christ and The Bridge Church, he invested in friendships, encouraged others and sought to live the life God had called him to live. Above all, Levi loved Jesus and lived his faith openly.

He also deeply loved his family. Levi trusted his father as a great confidante and would talk to him about hard struggles with friends, faith and new business ideas. He always took time to listen to his mom and pray with her. He grew into one of his siblings' closest friends. He challenged them to be their best and believed in their potential.

A cherished memory shared by a loved one recalls Levi talking as a young boy about growing strong and someday flying "up, up into the sky." At the time they thought he was hoping to become Superman, never thinking he would be entering heaven at such a young age. To those who loved him, he will always be remembered as a young man whose strength came from his faith, generous heart and ability to lift others up. He cared deeply for the people in his life; was so easy to love and life will not be the same without him.

Levi is survived by his parents, Steven and Sarah Newland; siblings, Ryan Hazard, Kellie Newland, Johnathan Newland and Isaac (Kate) Newland; grandparents, Gene and Bonnie Penny; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, teammates, classmates, coworkers, church family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Norm and Irene Newland; step-grandmother, Joyce Newland; and uncle, Brian Penny.

A memorial service to honor and celebrate Levi's amazing life will be held on Friday, July 24, 2026, beginning at 4:00 PM, at The Bridge Church, 7200 Angling Rd., Portage, MI 49024. The family will receive friends at the church from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, two hours prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be given to Youth for Christ, c/o the funeral home. Friends and family may share a condolence message online at www.joldersma-klein.com.