In loving memory of David Stewart who sadly passed away on 16th April 2023
Born in Worsley, Manchester 17/09/1937 to parents Thomas and Nora Stewart, older brother to Ann and Leslie.
David met his wife Valerie at All Saints School, Swinton and also attended ballroom dancing and amateur dramatics at the church hall. He studied French at Exeter University and married Valerie in 1959 before completing National Service in the Royal Army Medical Corps. and then taking up a position in middle management at Littlewoods Mail Order.
Between 1959 and 1970 David and Valerie had 4 sons Michael, Andrew, Graham and John and lived in Daisy Hill, Westhoughton before moving to Blackrod. After 17 years at Littlewoods and completing an Open University Degree, he retrained as a teacher and taught at Deane High and Sharples Schools in Bolton until taking early retirement. He then worked briefly driving for his son Graham's haulage firm before returning to education as a lecturer for Young Offenders, before retiring in 1997.
From 1962 until 1997 David played rugby for Wigan Unionists and then Aspull RFC and also was, for many years, a member of the Nottingham Oddfellows Friendly Society. Where he served on the Board of Management and as Grand Master (1990-91).
When he retired David and Valerie took the opportunity for a great adventure and moved to Brittany, France. They made many friends and had lots of visits from holidaying children, grandchildren and friends during 21 happy years in Langonnet, Morbihan. They also attended Christ Church Brittany for many of their years in France.
In 2019 health issues meant that David and Valerie made the decision to return to the UK and settled in Chorley. Although restricted in his activities by ill health, David continued to connect and socialise with friends and family and enjoyed many pub meals, attended Remembrance Sunday events at Spendmore Lane Methodists Church and the odd fish and chip supper.
A Cremation Service for David Stewart will be held at:
Charnock Richard Crematorium, Preston Road, Charnock Richard, Chorley PR7 5JP
2:30pm Wednesday 10th May 2023
The service can be viewed by streaming by copying this link into your browser and using the Login PIN below:
https://www.wesleymedia.co.uk/webcast-view
Webcast Login PIN 765-9781
An email containing this streaming link will also be emailed out to anyone who would like to view the service online live or for the 28 days following the service. Contact robert.stewart31@btinternet.com if you have not received and require the streaming link.
Following the service there will be a small gathering to share memories of David at:
Charnock Farm, Wigan Road, Leyland PR25 5DA
Cash donations of £55.00 that were made by those attending the funeral service at Charnock Richard Crematorium on 10th May 2023.
Many thanks to all those who donated in support of St Catherine's Hospice, Preston in memory of David Stewart at the funeral and through this obituary page.
It was a pleasure and priviledge to have met David soon after we arrived in France and to be welcomed into the family at Christ Church Brittany. I did not take long to become friends and share many an adventure. Sadly missed.
Jean and Graham
Thank you so much for your kind message Graham and Jean. I know that my Dad really enjoyed attending the church in Brittany during their time in France.
Happy Oddfellows memories
Thanks so much Melvyn and Kath.
It was a priviledge to have got to know 'Big Dave' here in France, and to be blessed with his friendship. A true gentleman with the kindest of hearts. We miss you. Holly & Cha x
Thanks for the kind words, I know how much my dad enjoyed your company, support and friendship.
All your friends here in Gourin send you their love and condolences. Lots of happy memories, especially of your Boxing Day parties. Lots of love.
Thanks for your kind words and memories Anne.
With fond memories together in France
Many thanks for your kind words and I know my dad had fond memories of times in France.
The Good Lord call you to Him, it was time for you to rest, no more pain or anguish your battle now is over.
It has been an Honor and our Please to know you David. You where one of life's Gentlemen, a giant of a Man with a tender loving Heart. You will be sorely missed, but never forgotten. There will always be a Special Place in our hearts, with so many Happy Memories for us to treasure. Till we meet again......
Many thanks for your kind words.
Lost a Lovely giant gentle Man David,
Thanks for your kind words. I know my dad valued your friendship and enjoyed many good times with you in France.
Beautiful
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