Newman grew NOCO into the largest independent supplier of petroleum products in western New York.
Reginald Newman II, former president and chairman of Tonawanda, N.Y.-based NOCO Energy Corp., died unexpectedly on April 7, 2018. He was 80.
Newman’s family made the following statement: “We are deeply saddened by the unexpected passing of our husband, father, grandfather and friend Reg Newman II.
“We are extremely proud of the legacy Reg leaves behind, including building one of the largest energy companies in the Buffalo Niagara region. Reg also was involved in a number of charitable and civic groups and organizations throughout the area.
“We will miss Reg dearly, but we know he has humbly left an indelible imprint in the community and in the energy industry.”
Born in Buffalo, N.Y., Newman attended Kenmore and Tonawanda schools. He was a three-sport athlete (football, basketball and track) and president of the Kenmore Varsity Club, and graduated from Kenmore High School in 1955. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Northwestern University in 1959.
Newman started as a salesman at R.B. Newman Fuel Corp. in 1960.
He expanded NOCO into the largest independent supplier of petroleum products in western New York – and one of the largest family-owned companies in the region. NOCO operates 37 NOCO Express convenience store locations throughout western New York.
Newman served as president of the NOCO, and as chairman from 1998 to his retirement in 2002.
He was also a member of the board of directors for Dunn Tire, Rand Capital Corp., Taylor Devices and M&T Bank; director and chairman of Prior Aviation Service; chairman of the Buffalo Niagara Partnership from 1996 to 1998; and a member of the Rotary Club of Buffalo, where he served as president from 1970 to 1971.
In addition he was a member of the board of directors for the Albright-Knox Art Gallery and chairman of the University at Buffalo Foundation from 1996 to 2008, as well as past president of the Country Club of Buffalo and the Buffalo Club.
Newman received several awards from the University at Buffalo, including being recognized as the executive of the year in 1997. He also received an honorary degree from Canisius College in 1997.
Newman enjoyed golf and hunting. He liked jazz and classical music and enjoyed reading.
In addition to his wife of 57 years and his daughter, he is survived by a son, a sister and four grandchildren.
