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ROBERT BURTON PAGET STEWART
Born: Oct 29, 1935
Date of Passing: Aug 26, 2024
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryROBERT BURTON PAGET STEWART
Robert Burton Paget Stewart, late of Poseidon Long Term Care Home at 70 Poseidon Bay, peacefully passed away in the early hours of Monday, August 26, 2024, at the age of 89 years.
Born October 29, 1935, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, to Dr. Charles Burton Stewart and Vida Inez Stewart. He is survived by his beloved wife Judy Stewart (Pilgrim) and daughters, Jennifer Stewart (Gary McFarlane) and Victoria Stewart (Chuck McDiarmid) and grandsons, Wren McFarlane and Tavish McDiarmid; his brother Fraser Stewart (Beverley Stewart) and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his son Paget Stewart (1963 to 2015) and his brother Burton Stewart (1940 to 2011).
Bob lived on Queenston Street and attended Robert H. Smith School. He and his brother Fraser began their Weekly Boarder lives at St. John’s Ravenscourt School, where they made lifelong friends. Bob entered the Faculty of Education at the University of Manitoba. Upon graduation he returned to St. John’s Ravenscourt and began his Teaching career. He taught Science and Biology as well as coaching Basketball, Soccer, Curling, Cross Country Running and Chess Club. He was a quiet leader and mentor for many other teachers and students.
Along with coaching many sports, Bob participated in his favourite activities, two of them being cross country skiing and cycling. In winter, he would ski to work out of his backdoor along the banks of the Red River in Fort Garry. When the snow melted, he was on his bike riding through Wildwood Park. His love for skiing led him to compete as a Masters skier in Wednesday night ski races at Windsor Park Golf Course and the various 30km Loppets around the Manitoba and the American Birkebiener. His favourite quote for those frigid days of winter was “There is no such thing as bad weather, only dressing poorly for it!”
He cycled with the Cycle of Hope with the Habitat for Humanity in six tours and raised funds to help build new homes in Winnipeg. On these rides he was known to bring out his guitar after dinner and sing folk songs with the group! Robert was also an avid runner and competed in many weekend races, always cheering on fellow participants. He completed many marathons and half marathons. Robert started singing as a young boy at St. Aidans Church, where he was the Head Choir Boy. He was always singing throughout his life, whether it was with a choir or bringing out his trusty guitar to lead everyone in a repertoire of camp songs.
Robert’s love of volunteering was well known to all who knew him. It was such an important part of who he was and how he lived his life. Most important to Robert was volunteering for decades at FortWhyte Alive. He was involved in blazing and clearing some of the original trails around the old Fort Whyte Nature Centre on McGillvary Boulevard. He frequently brought his family to the old duck house, the first on-site building for school programs, one of which was the Wilderness Survival Program. Robert was one of the first Educator-Volunteers at Fort Whyte. As quoted by Barret Miller, “Bob’s example guided me to see how to use one’s deep knowledge and intellect to inspire others, to fix broken parts of our world, to be a gracious host and friend, and to build the same gifts in others. Bob has left a generation of staff and volunteers equipped in the best ways (practically and intellectually) to carry on and grow his work. I know that this legacy is not unique to the FortWhyte Alive community but that this is Bob’s legacy to our city, province and world. Put simply: I am a better educator, a better ambassador for our collective past, our natural heritage, and better person because of Bob’s influence”.
Robert was a loving, supportive, patient and kind husband, father, poppa, brother and uncle. He was very proud of his family and enjoyed participating in the same activities to show his support. He included everyone. He taught his family the importance of giving back to the community through volunteering. We have many wonderful memories of camping at Rushing River and across Canada, singing around the campfire and paddling in the canoe. His encouragement and love will always be remembered.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to FortWhyte Alive, 1961 McCreary Rd., Winnipeg, Manitoba R3P 2K9.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 07, 2024, Sep 07, 2024
Condolences & Memories (21 entries)
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I would like to extend my sincere condolences to Judy, Jenny and Victoria on the passing of wonderful Bob. I have the loveliest memories of the Stewart family from my childhood in Winnipeg, and our lives cross crossed regularly . First, Jackrabbits and Saturday skiing, then the treasured visits to the magical Jenny Doll loft of Judy’s, and the cosy atmosphere of the Stewart home. Bob taught me biology at SJR, and his warmth, kindness, and patience( !) are not forgotten. More recent visits to the Sod Hut at Fort Whyte with my daughter to see the “Pioneer” way remain very special. Lastly, a not so long ago catch up one Christmas holiday about 6 years ago is a wonderful memory to treasure of an afternoon spent with Bob and Judy reminiscing. All my love and to the whole family, I am thinking of you at this difficult time. - Posted by: Maria Lamont (Family friend and former student) on: Oct 16, 2024
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I was fortunate to be taught by Bob at all three levels of school. In elementary school, where he taught grade 6 and coached hockey on the outdoor rink, in middle school, where he taught curling to grade 8 and 9 students, and in high school as a Biology teacher and environmentalist. He entertained my parents, church congregations, and boarders with his skilled guitar playing and sing a longs. Additionally, I had the great fortune to get to know Judy and the rest of the Stewart family as I was sometimes their babysitter. In every instance Bob and his family were kind, knowledgeable, tolerant, considerate and patient. I also remember having the opportunity to camp and canoe with Bob, Gary Laidlaw, and Muir Meredith on Lake of the Woods and the Souris and Whitemouth Rivers. If a measure of a person is how many people they teach how to fish, Bob must be the tallest person in the world. Personally, Bob led me to my interest in students and science teaching (and yes I had tonnes of meter sticks too), playing hockey, canoeing and camping. Some may remember paddling in Bob’s wood and canvas canoe, Ahmeek, in the 60s and 70s. The Ahmeek carries on to this day and is used by my brother and is a never ending reminder of the generosity and kindness of the Stewart family. Like the Ahmeek, Bob calmed turbulent waters, steered a course for generations of students, and buoyed everyone’s spirit on a daily basis. - Posted by: Kiddell Robert (Friend and student) on: Oct 08, 2024
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We are so sorry for your loss. My husband and I did benefit from Mr. Stewart's hard work when we went to Fort Whyte for the first time. Thank you Mr. Stewart for all your hard work, dedication all done out of love to benefit all. - Posted by: angela isaac (member of commmunity) on: Sep 17, 2024
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One way or another Mr. Stewart taught some or all of my four sons who attended SJR years ago. Our paths crossed here and there over the years in Winnipeg. I agree with all of the comments made by many of his former students, friends, fellow teachers, cross country ski buddies, lovers of nature and the great outdoors alike. What I particularly remember about Bob was his welcoming smile. It was a smile that put people , including myself at ease. It is truly a gift to welcome people and put them at ease. The photo posted with this life story illustrates well Bob’s joyful , welcoming smile. My sincere condolences to his family members. - Posted by: Catherine Lee (Mother of sons taught at SJR by “Bio Bob” ) on: Sep 16, 2024
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The last time I saw Mr. Stewart, he had just cycled out to St. Adolphe to join his former students for a reunion lunch. That's how I am happy to remember him -- hopping off a bike, laughing, happy to see his students. Mr. Stewart was a great teacher, a fierce supporter of Hamber House (go Hamber!), and a really fine person. My sincere condolences to the family. - Posted by: Meghan Nieman (former student) on: Sep 11, 2024
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I first met Bob when he began dating my dear friend Judy in the late 1950's or early 1960's when Judy and I were attending the University of Manitoba. Judy and Bob have remained my friends for 68 years. Over those years each time I returned to Winnipeg to visit family I also visited Judy and Bob and their growing family, first in Thompson House where fueled with Bob's pink gins we painted the walls and later visits on Riverside Drive with my husband and children. Always, there was Bob warm hearted, kind, interested in others lives and ready to share his love of xc skiing, cycling, birds and the natural world. It was Bob who introduced us to Habitat for Humanity and to Fort Whyte, which I in turn took my family to on every visit back to Winnipeg. Bob was steadfast in his support of Judy, Paget, Jennifer and Victoria. You will miss him so. Kind regards to you all Slange Var, dear Bob Irene and Hezi Withers - Posted by: Irene Withers (friend) on: Sep 10, 2024
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Kind, gentle, strong, passionate, always forgiving, always smiling, Bob was a mentor to me in teaching, fitness, and in the art of aging well. Ten years after I was given the opportunity to try to "fill Bob's shoes" as a science teacher at SJR (as if that were ever possible!) I continued to find Bob's trade-mark sketched owl tucked into lab materials, and I marvelled as he skied by, making his own river trail through the bright winter sunshine. Bob shared and taught and helped without apparent effort - a natural teacher if ever there was one; he knew that learning was always founded in catching a student's emotions first. I am forever indebted. I wish his family uncountable memories of all of the good in Bob. - Posted by: Dean McLeod (Friend, Mentee) on: Sep 09, 2024
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Mr. Stewart was an inspiration to those with whom he came into contact. I will forever appreciate his support of The Martin H. Ainley Archives Centre and the tireless hours in which he volunteered. Mr. Stewart was generous, kind, and a true gentleman. He will be missed and my sincere condolences go to his beautiful wife, Mrs. Stewart and the family. With Sincerest Regards, Calla Grabish - Posted by: Calla Grabish (Staff) on: Sep 09, 2024
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We are very sorry to hear of Bob's passing - his presence will be truly missed. Our deepest sympathy to Judy, Jenny, and to Victoria. We have many great memories of Bob at the Red River Nordic Ski Club, and the Wednesday night races at Windsor Park, and ski loppets throught the province. His contribution to the cross country skiing community was enormous. Rest In Peace. Paul and Jean Krepps, Ian Krepps and Paula Paterson (Krepps) - Posted by: Paul and Jean Krepps ( Friends) on: Sep 09, 2024
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I remember Bob as a very fine person with a passion for nature, sports and Learning, and a great way with the guitar! Our families were friends in Fort Garry, I remember good times at the Stewart house on Riverside Drive and singing together in the Rejoice Group at St. Paul’s Anglican Church. Bob was an important contributor to Fort Whyte Centre in its early days. He lives a wonderful legacy of love and learning in the wake of his life! Sending love and condolences to his family! - Posted by: Miriam Duff (Friend of the family) on: Sep 08, 2024
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I started at SJR as a student and boarder. Bob did not teach me in class but he mentored me as boarder. I later spent 18 years as his colleague as well as one of Paget's teacher. His dedication as a teacher, a citizen of SJR, an outdoorsman, volunteer and as a family man were beyond admirable. Bob's colleague, David Wellard brought X-C skiing to SJR and Manitoba and Bob fell in love with it. He loved nature and Fort Whyte benefitted greatly from his efforts and enthusiasm. I wish nothing but fond memories to Judy and the Stewart family. I will cherish mine. - Posted by: Muir Meredith (Student/Colleague) on: Sep 08, 2024
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Bob was my teacher and coach many years ago. He was always a positive and encouraging leader. I used to see him on the ski trails occasionally and it was always a pleasure to talk with him. My condolences to Judy and family - Posted by: Ivan McMorris (Former student and friend ) on: Sep 08, 2024
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I consider ‘Bio Bob’ as one of my early role models into biological sciences in high school. As an educator he was influential, committed, passionate, and knowledgeable; he truly represented the entire package. I extend my deepest sympathies and condolences to Bob’s family, friends, and colleagues. - Posted by: Brent Fuchs (Student ‘97, Wildlife Biologist) on: Sep 07, 2024
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My heartfelt condolences to Judy and to Bob's family and friends. "Mr. Stewart" was a popular, influential and positive influence at St. John's Ravenscourt for many, many years. He helped hundreds of students navigate academics, athletics and life's experiences. He led a full and good life and will be missed. I will continue to think of him (and Paget) fondly whenever I hike the trails at Fort Whyte Alive. - Posted by: David Ramsay (former student) on: Sep 07, 2024
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Oh Bob - such memorable times we shared - from shooting hoops in the Ravenscourt gym to winter days on the ski trails with all the Jackrabbitt bunnies. You were know as ‘Father Christmas’ with your snow encrusted beard. Never a harsh word, but always one of encouragement and joy. We secretly wished the winter would never end. The Saturday morning Jackrabbitt sessions at Windsor Park, the Wednesday night races - you were always there with Paget and Jenny. A twinkle in your eye……At the finish line of the annual Birkebeiner 50k cross country race picking up the exhausted skiers……with your family at the Jackrabbitt windup awards. rand days, my friend. Your spirit lives on in all our hearts. Gord Konantz - Posted by: Gord Konantz (Friend) on: Sep 07, 2024
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I just today learned of Bob's passing and needless to say, I'm am heartbroken to know he's left us. It's next to impossible to express what Bob meant to me and the inspiration he provided over the course of having known him. Bob was a truly beautiful human being and I was profoundly fortunate to have him in my life for such an extended period of time. I loved the man deeply. My deepest condolences to Judy and family. - Posted by: Daniel Donahue (former student and friend) on: Sep 07, 2024
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Bob had all the qualities I most admire: dedication, humility, gentleness, kindness and tolerance. In all the years we spent together at SJR, I never heard him say a negative thing about another person. I thought of him as an exemplar of the kind of teacher and person I aspired to be. My sincere Condolences to the family. Rest in peace, Bob. - Posted by: Mark Duncan (Colleague ) on: Sep 07, 2024
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A shining role model for someone who embraced his passions and pursued them. He was a great source of inspiration! - Posted by: Lois Krahn (Former student) on: Sep 07, 2024
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So sad to hear of him passing. My condolences to the family. I'm a former student of his at SJR. He instilled values that I carry with me to this day. He touched the lives of so many. Rest peacefully Mr. Stewart ... - Posted by: Ken Turchen (Former student ) on: Sep 07, 2024
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Penny and I, the whole Bowles family, are saddened to learn Bob Stewart has died. He was a kind, caring remarkable man and we extend heartfelt Condolences to Judy and his family. Bob was the quintessential teacher, sportsman, enthusiastic participant in life. and role model not only for his students but also the legions of lives he touched. Among his thousands of students, colleagues, friends and especially his family his leading by example legacy will continue to ripple out and make the world a better place. - Posted by: Sheldon Bowles (Long time admirer ) on: Sep 07, 2024
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As a former student and a member of many sports teams he coached, he had a great influence in my life at SJR and beyond. So sorry to read of Mr. Stewart’s passing. - Posted by: Tony Magian (Former student, our parents practiced together ) on: Sep 07, 2024
