TOPEKA- Erika Newman, 78, of Topeka, formerly of Valley Falls, passed away Friday, March 6, 2015 at Linnwood Home Plus in Valley Falls.

   She was born August 31, 1936 in Lubeck, Germany.  In 1964 Erika moved to the United States and married Richard Newman on July 23, 1964.  The couple lived in Valley Falls until moving to Topeka in 1975.  She had worked at Pelletiers and later Macy’s & Dillards in Topeka until her retirement in 1998.

   Erika is survived by: her husband, Richard of Topeka, KS; her son, Nicholas Newman (Nicole) of Westmoreland, KS; her brothers, Hans Heinrich & Alfred Kallmeyer both of Germany; and her one grandson, Silas Newman. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by a sister, Margot Rottgart.

   Erika was cremated and a memorial service will be held at a later date.  Memorials are suggested to Midland Hospice and may be left in care of Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 6, Valley Falls, KS 66088.  To leave a special message for the family, visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com