Edward "Stew" J. Stewart

Edward “Stew” J. Stewart Sr. age 82, of Gaines, formerly of Pinckney, passed away on Thursday, September 4, 2025.Visitation will be held at 10:00am followed by the Funeral Mass at 11:00am on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at St. Mary Catholic Parish, 10601 Dexter-Pinckney Road in Pinckney, Michigan 48169. Edward will be laid to rest next to his beloved wife, Rita, at St. Mary Catholic Cemetery in Pinckney. For those wishing to share condolences, please visit his obituary page at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com.

Edward was born on May 17, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan, to the late Edward and Helen (Stewart) Desiniewicz. He proudly worked as a truck driver for 49 years before retiring from J.B. Hunt in 2008. Edward married the love of his life, Rita, on June 13, 1975, and together they were blessed with seven children. Neither of them had the chance to finish high school, but, in 1986, they were inspired to go back school and earned their GEDs. It wasn’t easy, but they showed through their determination that learning and perseverance matter at every stage of life. Their achievement became a lasting lesson for their family—that education is worth pursuing, no matter when or how.

In his younger years, Edward loved fishing, boating, and spending time at the horse races. He was quite the character—always quick with a joke that could bring a smile to anyone’s face. He enjoyed a good game of poker and relaxing with a beer in hand, and he loved to go for walks. Above all, Edward adored his grandchildren and treasured every moment spent with family.

He is survived by his children, Michele (Aaron) Trumley, Edward Stewart Jr., John Augustine, Dawn (Matt) Campbell, Robin (David) Peters, Debra Theodoropoulos, and Tina Stewart-Lau; 21 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren, and one on the way, and his sister, Sharon Desiniewicz. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and other dear relatives.

In addition to his parents, Edward was preceded in death by his wife, Rita Stewart; siblings, Gary, Irene, and Eugene; and his faithful black lab, Buddy Boo.