Larry D. Stewart's Obituary
Larry D. Stewart, (85), of Belleville, Illinois passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 22, 2024. He was surrounded by his loving family in the hours preceding his death.
Larry, affectionately called Big Lar by his friends and family, was born the only child of Lawrence and Ruth Stewart of Coulterville, Illinois on October 15, 1938. Larry loved the farm he grew up on, and enjoyed the outdoors his entire life. Larry attended Southern Illinois University graduating with a Masters Degree in dairy nutrition. He started his career with Ralston Purina in the early 60s and remained a part of the Purina family until his retirement. He had many hobbies throughout the years including hunting, fishing, gardening, beekeeping and wine making. He loved to travel and visited 3 continents in his lifetime. He loved reading, especially westerns and spy novels. He was a fan of all sports but none more than Cardinal baseball.
Larry is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Linda, his son Michael and his wife Charlene, his daughter Erin and her husband Nabil, his only granddaughter, Michaela and her husband Drake, and his 3 grandsons, Mack, Conner, and Kostas. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Ruth.
Big Lar had the best sense of humor. He had all the best stories ready to share with friends and strangers alike. He was known to everyone as the kindest, wisest, and most generous man you could meet. Larry took great pride and joy in his children and grandchildren. He had a deep love for animals and took great comfort from his pets.
Larry's burial services will be private. A celebration of life will be scheduled in the springtime. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Belleville Humane Society to honor Larry's lifelong love of animals.
Arrangements were handled by Leesman Funeral Home.
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