It is with great sadness and sorrow that the Stewart family announces the passing away of Neal Lars Stewart of Mine Centre, Ontario on Monday August 3, 2015 at TBRHSC, in Thunder Bay, at the age of 44 years due to complications of cancer. Neal passed away peacefully with his family by his side. Neal was born on November 19, 1970, in Fort Frances, Ontario to parents Nels and Donna Stewart.
Neal attended elementary and secondary school in Atikokan and then went on to the University of Western Ontario were he obtained an Honours Degree in Actuarial Science. However, the city life was not for Neal and he chose to return home to the family logging business. Later, he moved on to work for Melvin Williamson Timber Ltd.
In earlier years, Neal was the main resource to organizing any fishing expeditions and always had minnows ready. Many have stories to tell of their experiences. Later on, he expanded to include hunting trips for friends and family.
Neal had a heart of gold. He would give anyone anything he had if he thought they needed it and he would go without himself. Many enjoyed his humour and intellect. Neal excelled in our many board and card games. He was a stiff opponent.
Neal will he sadly missed and dearly remembered by his mother Donna, sister Ellen (Don) Blundon, and brother John (Cecilia) Stewart, nephews Nathan, Daniel, and Alexander Blundon, Brent, Kyle, Scott, Eric and Ryan Stewart. Neal is also survived by close family members Aunt Ellen, Uncle Ray, Aunt Ollie and Aunt Irene as well as many more uncles, aunts and cousins too numerous to mention. Neal’s loyal companion Keeya will also miss him.
Neal was predeceased by his father Nels Stewart, grandparents John and Amanda Stewart, Israel and Elma Lougheed.
A memorial will be held in honour of Neal on Friday August 14, 2015 at 2:00pm at La Place Rendez Vous, Fort Frances. If so desired, donations may be made in Neal’s memory to a charity of your choice.
God saw you getting tired and a cure was not to be. So he put his arms around you and he whispered, “Come to Me.” A golden heart stopped beating hard working hands at rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us He only takes the best.
