NELS STEWART

It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of Nels Arnold Stewart on Monday, June 1, 2009 at his residence on the Seine River after a short illness.
Nels was born Aug. 26, 1932 in Fort Frances, Ont. to the late Amanda and John Stewart.
He started work at Henry Motors at the age of 15 as a “grease monkey.” He later graduated from Ryerson Technical Institute in Toronto as a mechanic.
Nels stayed with Henry Motors for 11 years. In 1957, he joined his father and brother in the family logging business, where he remained to this day.
Nels always said that his life was meant to be lived in the bush and near the water.
Nels was an avid reader, who especially enjoyed political debates and listening to CBC information radio. In his leisure time, he enjoyed fishing, gardening, cryptographs, spending time with his grandchildren, and cursing potato bugs.
Nels is survived by his wife of 42 years, Donna (nee Lougheed); daughter, Ellen (Don) Blundon of Thunder Bay, Ont.; sons, John (Cecilia) of Crilly and Neal (Anna) of Mine Centre, Ont.; and 10 grandchildren, Nathan, Daniel, and Alex Blundon, Brent, Kyle, Scott, Eric, and Ryan Stewart, and Gavin and Tiffany Gibbons.
Nels also is survived by his sisters, Ellen (Keith) Watson of Fort Frances, Ont. and Norma Freund of Vancouver, B.C.; brother, Ray (Ollie) of Fort Frances, Ont.; and also many sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, and nephews.
Nels was predeceased by his parent, Amanda and John Stewart; one brother in infancy; sister, Rose Floeting of Seattle, Wash.; and niece, Diane Petit.
According to Nels’ wishes, there will be no funeral.
Cremation has taken place, with interment at a later date.
A “Sharing of memories” tribute will be held Saturday, June 6, 2009 at 2 p.m. at the Northridge Funeral Home in Emo, Ont.
In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, in memoriam donations may be made to Riverside Health Care Facilities, Inc. (La Verendrye Hospital).
Nels has touched many lives, and will be sadly missed by many family and friends.
Online condolences may be offered at www.northridgefuneralhome.com