February 19, 1930 - February 13, 2025
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of James Ray (Jim) Stewart. He passed away peacefully on February 13th, just 6 days shy of his 95th birthday. He will be greatly missed by his spouse of 43 years, Susan (nee Luther) and his 5 children: Lynn (Russ) Forbes, Gayle (Bryan) Loker, Terri (Brian) Whiffin, Katie (Doug) Fournier, and Sam (Cassie) Stewart. Jim will also be greatly missed by his grandchildren; Russ (Bronwyn), Stewart (Sara), Jen, Beckie (Brad), Meghan (Chris), Leigh (Kyle), Mike (Mandi), Nick, Arnie, Ella, Grace, Lauren and Noah, as well as his many great grandchildren. Jim is also survived by his sister Shirley Gavin of Round Lake and was pre-deceased by his siblings Blake, Jayne and Sylvia (aka Kickie). He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, whose company he enjoyed greatly.
Jim started his police service with the RCMP back in the ‘50’s, moved over to the Kitchener Police Force and retired as a Staff Inspector with the Waterloo Regional Police after a fulfilling career in 1982.
Jim will be remembered for his great sense of humour and wit. He loved getting together with family and friends, jumping on the dance floor at parties, playing many sports and a mean game of cards. All was accompanied by much laughter.
Jim was raised in Ottawa and lived on Boehmer Street in Kitchener for many years. His favourite holiday places were his cottage on Hope Bay and visiting family in Golden Lake and Round Lake.
He loved living on the farm near Exeter for 29 years, building and maintaining wonderful gardens, raising their beloved Collies and Shelties (known as Grandhill Kennels), being a great hockey dad, hosting the annual Stewart reunion and enjoying all of his family to the fullest.
Up until the young age of 92, he was walking 5 km a day and lifting weights after his morning Mocha at Balzac’s. He rarely missed a day, rain or shine.
Jim lived an absolutely wonderful, full life, showing us what it meant to be a “Stewart!” He was deeply loved and will be greatly missed.
Jim spent his last 3 weeks of life in the loving, attentive care of the wonderful staff at the Rotary Hospice.
If desired, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Rotary Hospice Stratford Perth in Jim’s name through the W. G. Young Funeral Home. www.wgyoungfuneralhome.com