Memorial
Richard Stewart, 76, passed away Monday, October 20, 2014, peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family. A graveside burial service will be held at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery, on Friday October 24, at High Noon. The family will host an open house from 1-4 following the inurnment in their home at 120 Fleetwood Road Southwest.
Richard was born July 26, 1938 to Arvel and Elizabeth Stewart in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He was among the first class to graduate from Washington High School in Cedar Rapids. After school he served 5 years on the USS Bon Homme Richard as a nuclear weapons specialist for the US Navy. While in the service he also served his country as a wrestler for the Navy. On April 19, 1963 Richard married Connie Schmidt in Anamosa, Iowa. He was an avid outdoorsman who truly enjoyed fishing and hunting. He also liked collecting antiques. Richard was able to retire at a young age and from his career as an operating engineer from Iowa Electric. He was an active member of the Operating Engineers Local 275.
Richard is survived by his wife of 52 years, Connie Stewart of Cedar Rapids, son: James Stewart of Cedar Rapids, daughter: Jennifer Ellis of Cedar Rapids; grandchildren: William, Elizabeth and Linzy and 4 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by sisters: Iona (William) McClenahan of Seattle, WA, Pat Hildebrand of Cedar Rapids, Norma (David) Berry, Cedar Rapids; brother: William (Harlene) Stewart of Cedar Rapids.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Arvel and Elizabeth; brothers: James, Albert, Robert Stewart; and infant sister; paternal and maternal grandparents.
Richard was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend who will be missed.