David's obituary
Reverend David W Stewart, retired minister of The Presbyterian Church of Canada, passed away at home in Crofton, BC, with the loving care of family and palliative services, on January 1st, 2024, after a valiant battle with cancer.
David was born in Ontario and lovingly adopted by Rev. Dr. Richard and Lois Stewart; joining his brother Richard (Anne). Through the Presbyterian Young Peoples Society, he met and later married his wife Carol (née McLachlin). Upon David’s graduation from Knox College in Toronto, the couple relocated to British Columbia and served communities and ministered congregations in Port Alberni, Kelowna, and Vancouver. David then committed a year to consulting with a First Nations community in Lillooet, playing a large role in the establishment of their own school. After a move to Victoria, David became the Manager of the Upper Room and later the Director of Operations for Our Place. In both these roles, he strived to make a significant and meaningful impact on the vulnerable population of Victoria. David served congregations as interim minister at both St. Andrews Presbyterian in Victoria and Duncan. In his later years, he continued to serve as pulpit supply in many congregations on Vancouver Island. David had a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals.
David was devoted to his family and deeply proud of his children and grandchildren: Scott (Jennifer), David, Alex; Suzanne (Timo), Brittany, Courtney; Naomi (Greg), Mark, Ryan; Christy, Riley; and Michael.
David’s passions spanned from the golf course to the heart of the kitchen, where he crafted meals with love for his family. Yet, his deepest joy stemmed from every opportunity to be with his family, especially relishing moments with his cherished grandchildren.
The Stewart Family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Cowichan Palliative Services, and David’s extensive medical team, for the care provided to him, and for the compassion and support extended to the entire family.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, January 28, at 2:30pm, at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church (924 Douglas St, Victoria, BC). A virtual service is available at https://www.youtube.com/@stan….
Donations in memory of David can be made to Cowichan Hospice (https://cowichanhospice.org/) or The Soup Kitchen (https://www.thesoupkitchen.ca…)
We are reminded that the task of ministry is done not by one individual or group of individuals, but by "one body invested in service of one God." - David W Stewart, 2005