Stewart Black

On April 29th, 2026 Stewart Black (90 years) died peacefully in his home in Cobble Hill, BC. Living on his own and in near-perfect health his entire life, he was hospitalized a mere three weeks before he died, where widespread cancer was discovered. Mercifully, he was in no pain, whatsoever. In the days that followed he was able to take in moments with family and friends, and reiterated often his gratitude for “a wonderful, full life”. He died as he lived: with grace, dignity and as a gentleman.

Stewart was born near Glasgow, Scotland to John and Agnes Black, joining big brother Gordon. His childhood was recounted with simple delights of soccer, a few piano lessons and, yes, tennis!

Emigrating to Canada in 1964 with his new bride, Ellen, he taught high school sciences for 31 years at Elmwood High School in Winnipeg, and was delighted to have been retired for as many years as he was employed.

Stewart was unwavering in every family role. As a father and grandfather, he was a great listener, academic tutor – especially at Chemistry! - and a constant encourager. As a husband, Stewart was a loving peer and partner to Ellen. (When young teenagers, Stewart’s children were horrified that their parents kept holding hands in public.) In retiring to Arbutus Ridge in 1997, the consummate honeymooners enjoyed new friendships, and Stewart resumed his love of tennis! Tennis offered great rivals who also became valued friends off the court.

Stewart and Ellen travelled far and wide, including many trips back to their beloved Scotland where they kept up with friends and family. Sadly, Ellen died of inoperable lung cancer in 2009; he was gutted to lose his soulmate, who would forever remain the love of his life.

Stewart mustered well and grew in his roles of friend, father and grandfather, always remembering birthdays and special occasions…and moments of need. New adventures unfolded, including trips to the Davis Cup, and trips with family to Winnipeg, Britain and Mexico. Church life continued to offer fellowship, especially a very special friendship with Alma. Both widows, they found mutual solace and delight in good food (Union Club!) and additional travel to Eastern Canada and Aruba!

Stewart’s commitment to the Presbyterian Church mirrored his teaching career…near 50 years as an active member and elder, and remained a faithful adherent following streamed services until the Sunday before he died.

Stewart’s last year was as active as many before it. It was marked with a full recovery from a mini-stroke in 2025, and also travel to Mexico in December, in advance of his 90th birthday bash …which he largely planned himself! It was at this recent celebration he offered a memorable speech about immense gratitude for health, friendship …and his driving license being returned; He loved driving! 😊

Stewart leaves behind his immensely grateful children, Elizabeth Lalman (Keith), Iain (Christina) and Craig (Helena), and adoring grandchildren Thomas (Nell), Jordan (Nastia), Danielle, Susanna, Cassandra, Sara and Alexa. He is also survived by his older brother Gordon (Stella) in Bedfordshire, England and sister-in-law, Marjorie Kemp (Alasdair, Mum’s brother) in Scotland and their families, with whom many happy summers were spent through the years. He will also be missed by extended & adopted family in both Canada and Scotland, all of whom remember his gentle kindness & humour, and that he was just a really great guy.

Our sincere thanks to ALL the attending hospitalists, nurses and support staff of the Cowichan District Hospital as well as the wonderful palliative team lead by Dr. Masuda, as well as his extraordinary GP, Dr. Young Sang Sohn, in Duncan.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 13th 1:30pm at Saanich Presbyterian Church, 9296 E Saanich North Saanich, with Rev Irwin Cunningham officiating. Coffee and tea to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations are invited to Canadian Cancer Society or Cowichan Hospice.

For those unable to attend the celebration in person, please click the following link to attend virtually: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=X9Aq2_UNNso&pp=iggCQAE%3D&ra=m

“He has showed you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God…” Micah 6:8 RSV