Kenneth Byron Stewart

Kenneth B. Stewart, 83, U.S. Air Force MSGT, Ret, departed this life peacefully on December 31, 2012. He was born at Elmwood Place, Ohio on September 6, 1929, and was a resident of Poquoson since, 1974. Ken began his military career at the age of 17 by joining the Coast Guard, eventually choosing the Air Force as the branch to grow and contribute his talent for all things electronic. He retired in 1968 after 20 years as a Master Sergeant. He enjoyed a successful second career and eventually retired as a Radio Electronics Officer in the U.S. Merchant Marines, serving during the Vietnam conflict. His career enabled him travel to many countries around the world. Ken was preceded in death by his loving wife of 46 years, Reiko Miki Stewart. He is survived and by his son, John B. Stewart and wife Hope of Smithfield, VA; daughter, Joyce E. Soness and husband Eric of Flower Mound, TX; and 3 grandchildren, Ethan, Emma Claire and Fiona. A celebration of Ken's life will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, January 10, 2013 at Parklawn- Wood Funeral Home, with inurnment to follow at Parklawn Memorial Park. A reception will follow the conclusion of the inurnment at Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home. The family asks that in lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the American Cancer Society ( www.acs.org ), 11835 Canon Blvd. Suite A 102, Newport News, VA 23606. Friends are encouraged to visit www.parklawn-woodfh.com to share memories and words of condolence with the family. Arrangements are under the care of Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home, 2551 N. Armistead Avenue, Hampton, VA 23666.