Gordon "Turk" James Stewart

      When someone is identified as a natural leader, certain images come to mind. First thoughts are of a no-nonsense, tough-minded, dedicated and disciplined person. This description accurately fits Gordon "Turk" James Stewart who was indeed a born manager. He will be remembered as being highly organized, practical and realistic. He was a person who always carried a strong sense of duty with him throughout his life. Possessed with traditional “old school” morals, Turk was an individual who clearly communicated to those around him just who he was and what he was all about. Everyone acquainted with Turk knew him as a well-respected man who was a stable force in his community.

      Turk was born on January 21, 1934 in the family home, in Reserve Mines, Cape Breton Island. His parents were Bridget and Donald Stewart. Turk was also raised in Reserve Mines. Even as a youngster, Turk learned to be objective and decisive. His faith in the principles of authority and dependability was something that he carried with him throughout his life.

       Turk was raised with five siblings. He had two older brothers, Donald and Allan. He also had two older and one younger sister, Josephine, Audrey and Marjorie.

      Turk's matter-of-fact attitude about most things was developed during his childhood. As a young boy, Turk enjoyed being part of teams, and organizations and groups of other kids who shared similar interests. Turk took part in hockey and soccer and he was also a scout. In his spare time he liked his mechano set. Turk's memorable achievements included learing to skate.

       Turk graduated from Morrison GlaceBay High School in 1952. He enjoyed some courses more than others, having favorite classes and teachers. His favorite class in high school was French. The teacher he enjoyed learning from the most was Miss Dick. He was also proud to be elected Class President and lead the grand march. He then went on to earn his CIM degree and his favorite professor was James B. Swan.

        While growing up, some of Turk's best friends were Andrew (Nino) Pinkerton and Gordon MacKeigan, Allister (Squix) Matheson, Dick MacKenzie, Reggie MacDonald, Leo Amadio and Cecil MacQueen.

On September 1, 1956, Turk exchanged wedding vows with Shirley Joyce Morris at the St. Mary's Church (Anglican) Glace Bay.

      Turk was ever watchful of his children. He worried about them and was deeply concerned for their development as they grew up. Turk and Shirley were blessed with children, Kevin and Michelle.

Turk's primary occupation was Industrial Relations. He was employed for 21 Years with Devco, 7 years Luiteruim of Can LTD (Atomic Energy) and 14 years Cape Breton Development.

In high school, Turk played hockey and soccer. In his college years, Turk continued to stay active. Recreational sports included hockey, curling and water skiing. He also was something of a sports fan and enjoyed watching his favorite events whenever he got the opportunity. Tops on his list were hockey, curling and golf.

       Throughout the years, Turk was an active member of the JR Minors Hockey Team and a member of the Sydney Curling Club.

    . Turk was a member of several community groups, including serving on committees for day care negotations. Politically, Turk was Conservative but made some personal votes for friends.

       Turk was a member of Gordon United then Knox United. During that time, he was on the board of directors, Knox Church, Glace Bay.

      One of his most prestigious awards included Sport and Recreation Award of Recognition GlaceBay JR Miners, Feb 22, 2002.

       Turk's favorite vacations included an Alaskan Cruise, The Mira River-our cottage.

      Turk was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of Turk’s favorites was Spud the dog. They were best friends for 10 years. His family was rounded out by Skippy.

      When Turk’s retirement finally arrived in 1994, he was well prepared. His new life involved staying in GlaceBay in the winter, summers in Mira. In retirement, he found new pleasure in taking computer classes at the high school and active in his church. In many ways, Turk loved retirement. It provided him with the opportunity to catch up with his friends, attend functions and group outings, and tackle new interesting activities.

      Turk passed away on September 25, 2016 at Glace Bay Health Care. He is survived by his wife, Shirley and children Kevin and Michelle. Also two sisters, Audrey and Marjorie and brother Allan. Services were held at Patten Funeral Home and Knox Church. Turk was laid to rest in Forrest Haven Memorial Gardens.

      All who knew him would agree that Turk was a pillar of the community. He lived his life with his feet firmly on the ground. He had a strong work ethic and constantly sought the means for self-improvement. He was willing to share his ideas and knowledge for the benefit of others, so that they could accomplish more in their lives. Gordon "Turk" James Stewart did his best to ensure that his family, friends, loved ones, co-workers, and everyone whose life he touched was given the chance to become a better person.

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STEWART, Gordon “Turk”

Glace Bay

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our precious husband, father and friend, Gordon “Turk” Stewart (82). Turk passed away Sunday, September 25, 2016 at the Glace Bay Hospital after a lengthy illness.

Turk was born in 1934 in Reserve Mines to the late Donald and Bridget (Finnell) Stewart where he developed his strong love of hockey, which he maintained his entire life. He played Junior, Senior, Intermediate and Colliery League ending with the Glace Bay Old Timers, where he made many lifelong friends. A highlight of his hockey career was managing the Glace Bay Jr. Miners with coach and friend, Leo Amadio, to win the 1966-67 Cape Breton Jr. Championship. He was a dedicated fan of the Cape Breton Oilers and the Cape Breton Screaming Eagles.

Turk is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Shirley (Morris); son, Kevin, Calgary; daughter, Michele (Duffy Wiseman), Glace Bay; brother, Allan, Agincourt, Ontario; sisters, Aurdy Weatherbee and Marjorie Walker, both of Glace Bay. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by brother, Donald; sister, Josephine and mother and father-in-law, Frank and Minnie Morris.

His career in Industrial Relations began in the 1950’s with the Dominion Coal Company and continued until retirement from The Cape Breton Development Corporation in 1994 with the exception of 7 years spent with Atomic Energy of Canada (Glace Bay Heavy Water Plant) from 1973-79.

Close to his heart was their place ‘Out on the Mira’ where he and Shirley spent many happy summers.

Visitation will be from 6-9 Wednesday, September 28, 2016 at Patten Funeral Home. Funeral Service to take place on Thursday, September 27, 2016 at 1 p.m. in Knox United Church.

Donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or Knox United Church.

Online condolences can be made to the family by visiting www.PattenFuneral.com.