Obituary Overview
MURRAY ALEXANDER STEWART
Quintessential gentleman, motorcycle rider, grader operator, loving husband, art dad, BBQ master, frequent curmudgeon, dry wit, loyal and perceptive friend, tough old pirate.
Murray Stewart grew up in Toronto, where he loved playing hockey and spending summers in Ontario’s cottage country with his Rover crew. As a young man he travelled Europe, even touring Iceland before it was cool. His later-life travels took him on many cross-Canada motorcycle trips, to Dawson City, the Moto GP in Spain, and a family trip to France and the Netherlands. There he visited Appeldorn, the meeting place of his parents, Murray Douglas Stewart and Tineke Staargaard. He leaves his sister Pronica (Andy), and brothers John (Beverly) and Alan, and their families, to carry on the Stewart traditions.
“Alberta bound” in 1975, Murray worked as a grader operator, laying the foundations for much of Edmonton’s expansion. He met and soon married the amazing Janice Black. He wasn’t a fan of winter, but toiled long hours at odd times, in bad weather — always with a great big coffee and lunch packed by Janice. Together they raised three children: Anthea (Toronto/San Francisco), Tom and Dave (Edmonton). Janice’s mother Emma (Tom) and her loving family will miss him dearly.
Murray cherished his home, the community of Old Strathcona, and a tight group of excellent and supportive friends. He will be remembered for his “soon-to-be world-famous burgers,” red Honda motorcycles, and teaching kids to skate: “Patience is the key to success” was his mantra as a mentor. Murray fostered a love of music and art in his children, as a fan of the Rolling Stones, Dylan, Zappa and John Prine and of Rembrandt, Cartier-Bresson and Ansel Adams. The blues and folk fests in Edmonton were an annual highlight.
For many years, Murray rode in the Toy Run, and with Janice donated hundreds of toy trucks, motorcycles, art kits and holiday meals to those in need. In memory of our Dad, please follow our Christmas tradition of donating gifts or meals to Santa’s Anonymous, the Christmas Bureau, or the Mustard Seed. Above all, please raise a glass in memory of Murray, who reminded us that a life well-lived is “as fine as frog’s hair.”
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Murray Stewart 2018..
Source: South Side Memorial Chapel
Death notice for the town of: Edmonton, Province: Alberta