Newman proved a visionary in growing his family’s grocery business into a regional industry leader, but his most lasting contributions came through his dedication to equality and helping the disadvantaged. After attending MIT and Stanford, he earned an MBA at the University of Chicago. Shortly thereafter, he became president of Hinky Dinky, transforming it from a chain of 30 small groceries into 45 modern supermarkets. An industry innovator, he then developed a concept of operating food departments within department stores, at its zenith featuring 40 locations from coast to coast. Newman possessed a dedication to equal employment opportunities that went far beyond his stores. He was one of the founders of the Boys Club of Omaha, funded new playgrounds in north Omaha and helped launch a new minority-owned community bank. He also served as president of Goodwill Industries and Omaha’s Jewish Federation. His life was tragically cut short in 1973 at age 47 by cancer. Shortly before his death, he was awarded the Nebraska Urban League’s first Whitney Young Memorial Award for his contributions to civil rights and equality. One can only Imagine what he would have accomplished had he lived a full life.
Nick passed away in 1973 at the age of 47.