Keith was born in Cornwall Township on January 27, 1934. He and his siblings Neil, Duane, Dale and Lois grew up along the shores of the canal where they happily spent their time fishing, swimming and skating. They worked hard, even weeding carrots for a local farmer, earning 5c/day to pay for a movie. Keith worked for Domtar for 41 years as a machinist and retired as Mechanical Superintendent in 1993. It was outside of work that he made the most impact.
Keith had an outstanding career as a motorcycle racer for 9 years, sponsored by BSA New Jersey for 6 of those. Racing took him across Canada and the US, resulting in him winning the Canadian Road Racing, Ontario and Canadian ½ Mile Flat Track, and Canadian Grass Track Championships. Keith was a proud member of the Monument of Champions at Daytona Beach and was inducted into the Cornwall Sports Hall of Fame. Keith also excelled in hockey and lacrosse as a goalie, both as a player and a coach for many years.
Keith loved being outdoors and enjoyed hunting and fishing which took him from Newfoundland to BC and Alaska. He and his dad built “the camp” in the early 60s which gave family and friends the opportunity to go boating, hunting, fishing or just to experience rustic living. There were many laughs and stories about the camp that continues to provide a chance to get away from it all.
Keith could build or rebuild anything. His woodworking skills developed into furniture making and led to teaching at GVSS post-retirement. Keith, Neil and Dale were always working together to repair and build their homes and toys. His beloved fruit trees and garden continue to produce a bounty of food which he generously shared with local food banks.
Keith and Waveney loved their trips to Mexico, Cuba and Hawaii. He actually got a bit lazy in the sun and could spend his day lying on the beach soaking in the heat. They also enjoyed Alaskan cruises, trips to northern US and all across Canada.
Keith was the beloved husband of Waveney Stewart (Stuart) and father of Brian and Shawna. Pre-deceased by Shelley Ann (infant daughter), parents Captain Frank Stewart and Helen Stewart (Dawson) sister Lois Cherry (Don) and brother Dale (Marlene). Survived by siblings Neil (Olga) and Duane (Irene) and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of Lahaie and Sullivan Cornwall Funeral Homes, West Branch (613-932-8482). By request, cremation has taken place. A Memorial Service will be held at St. John’s Presbyterian Church on Friday, February 18th, 2022 at 1pm. In keeping with current guidelines of the Church, attendees must show proof of double vaccination. Please send an RSVP to [email protected] or call 613-932-8693. A private family service will be held at the St. Lawrence Valley Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Cornwall Hospice or St. John’s Presbyterian Church. Messages of condolence may be left at www.lahaiesullivan.ca.
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