It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Elwin John Stewart, our beloved Dad and Pops, on April 1st, 2026, at the age of 90. Elwin was born on June 30, 1935 (as he would say, the Canada Day fireworks were always a day late!) in Campbellton, New Brunswick.

Elwin was a loving and cherished father to Michelle & Christopher, and the most devoted and loving Pops to Lauren & Justin, who were his pride and joy in life.

Elwin is predeceased by his wife Shilla Stewart, his parents, Robert and Mona Stewart, his siblings Irby (Marion), Doris (Doug), and Ruby (Bob), Sister-in-law Diana, and brothers-in-law Clyde & Max.

Elwin will be fondly remembered by his tall son, Mike, sisters-in-law Suzana & Alex, brother-in-law Stephen, numerous nieces and nephews, and many, many friends, notably Maarty and Jacquie Hendriksen, who by fate became his best friends, neighbours, and cycling partner when Elwin and Shilla moved to St. Catharines in 2001.

Elwin was happiest when he was active and moving about, be it cycling, hiking, skating, or swimming, and was always up for helping his family and friends with a project for the day. From cheering loudly for the Montreal Canadiens and Ottawa Senators, to playing cards with his family, to hiking the Bruce Trail, he lived life to the fullest. He uniquely merged a gentle kindness with hard work and a genuine joy for all of life’s moments. Always a man with a plan, Elwin stayed active up until his last days, enjoying moving every day and getting “Up and at ‘em”.

He had a smile and eyes that could light up a room, and he made friends throughout the many cities he lived in and the organizations he was a part of. He loved a good story, a hearty meal, an exciting adventure, and a deep laugh. Elwin will lovingly be remembered by all as a man of deep physical and emotional strength, navigating his life with pride, love for his family and friends, and a strong commitment to “doing the right thing”.

Elwin spent the later years of his retirement in the Royal Henley Retirement Community, where he enjoyed a social and active lifestyle. Thank you to all the staff who worked to create rich experiences and a bright environment for him to enjoy.

Thank you to all the staff at St. Peter’s Palliative Care Unit who provided loving and compassionate care for Elwin and allowed him to engage in meaningful moments during his last few months.

Private arrangements for cremation have been made.

A celebration of life will be held at Macassa Bay Yacht Club, 80 Harbour Front Dr., Hamilton, on April 26th from 1:00 - 5:00 pm. Please drop by to honor and celebrate our Dad, Pops, and friend, and share in the memories and laughter he has given us. The family will say a few words and raise a glass to toast him at 2:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Niagara's Big Move Cancer Ride and the Walker Family Cancer Centre, a ride that Dad participated in many times and is dear to our hearts. 

https://ofnhs.akaraisin.com/ui/BMCR2026/p/ElwinJohnStewart