It is with great sadness that we announce William James Stewart passed away peacefully on June 20, 2016 at Cascades Lodge in Chilliwack. Willie was born at Dulsie Farm near Nairn, Scotland on August 14, 1929. He will be greatly missed by his loving wife of 64 years, Kathleen; four daughters Mhairi Stewart (Gary), Anne Alendal (Jim), Karen Stewart (Kevin), Heather Stewart (Wayne); six grandchildren, Melissa Cavanagh (Dustin), Stacy Shields (Garth), Nicole Macgregor (Ian), Jarritt Alendal (Brittany), Kayleigh Alendal (Sean), and Ross Hewton; three great grandchildren, Mekenzie Keeley, Carter and Cooper Cavanagh and many loving relatives and friends that reside here and in Scotland.
Willie grew up and then farmed at Achamore, the family farm in Scotland. In 1952, he married the love of his life, Kathleen. Mhairi was born the next year. In 1957 Willie Kathleen and Mhairi immigrated to Chilliwack along with his sister Pearl, husband Ron and their son Stewart.
When they arrived in Canada Willie worked as a hired farm hand and in 1958 they bought the “family” farm in Greendale. Also in 1958 they welcomed Anne into the family, followed by Karen in 1961 and Heather in 1966.
Both Willie and Kathy worked hard and were successful dairy and crop farmers. Dad really embraced the neighbourhood and enjoyed socializing and lending a helping hand when needed. Willie was very active in the community. He was a member of the Caledonian Society, Achelitz Farmers Institute, the Sargeants Mess, Chilliwack Curling Club, The Oddfellows, the Sons of Scotland, the Hole in the Wall and several mens coffee groups. Willie and Kathy together enjoyed a long healthy, happy retirement. They traveled, gardened, golfed, danced and curled. They enjoyed their walks around the neighbourhood, along the Rotary trail and at the seaside. Mom and Dad enjoyed having dinner and socializing with friends at the Royal Hotel on Fridays and coffee with friends at the mall. The family would like to thank Dr. Paul Basson, as well as the staff at Fraser Health, We Care and Cascades Lodge for their compassionate care during a difficult time. Willie loved life and he lived it well, we will miss him dearly. A celebration of life will be held at the Coast Hotel, Chilliwack on Monday, June 27th, 2016. Please drop by between 1-4pm to share your memories of Willie.