Stuart Edward McLeod was born in Emo, Ont., on March 21, 1928. He grew up on the family farm during the Great Depression and was educated by the quiet common sense of his late father, Addison, mother, Muriel, and the nearby country schools that couldn’t contain his wanderlust.
Stuart passed away peacefully at home in Nanaimo, B.C. on March 30, 2000.
Stuart spent many happy hours as a trucker conquering ice snowstorms, forest fires, and the challenging highways of Northwestern Ontario. He was employed by Dryden Paper Company, where he made many friends (including Bill W. in January, 1970).
In 1973, Stuart moved his family to his beloved Vancouver Island, where he worked as a Boomman at Harmac until retirement in 1993. Stuart loved gardening, camping, music, and winning at Scrabble. He made countless friends entertaining with his rockhound, Maggie, fifth wheeling across Canada, the Yukon, and through the U.S.
Stuart had a knack for putting people at ease and telling a joke. His grandchildren delighted in his banter, sense of fun, and the size of his enormous hands. He lived by his father’s sage advice, “Never pin someone else’s medal on your own chest.”
He instilled in his children a great respect for Mother Nature and his zest for life.
Stuart was a dedicated father and husband who faced a painful battle with cancer with courage, dignity, and a sense of humour.
Survived by his wife, Darlene, Jerry (Gaye) Marina, Lori (Dick) Marilynn (Phil), and 10 super grandchildren; brother, Doug and sister, Eldyne (Don); best friend to Kelly, Garry, Tom, Betty, Lorne, Lou, Hank, Yvonne, and several nieces and nephews, and cousins.
Thanks to Stuart’s friends and relatives for the cards, visits, and phone calls during his illness. Special thanks to Tanya and Jenny Reid for their comfort and support.
Soar with the eagles Dad, the coffee’s always on.