Harold Frederick Stewart

On February 1, 2026, Harold Frederick Stewart, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the quiet dignity that defined his life. Born in Keyser, West Virginia on September 21, 1939, he was the son of John and Florence Stewart. To his children he was “Dad,” to his grandchildren “Poppa,” and to his large extended family he was affectionately known as “Sonny.”

Initially an ordained minister, he lived his life with a divine certitude—a confidence rooted in his deep and unwavering faith in God. It was this faith that shaped his heart and guided the way he loved others - with sincerity, generosity, and grace.

In 1957, wishing to serve his country, he enlisted in the United States Army, where he trained as a combat medic and LVN. He first duty station would be in Neubrücke, Germany. In the fall of 1965, he deployed with the 1st Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment to Vietnam - a chapter of his life that remained difficult long after his return. In the years that followed, he worked tirelessly to improve the lives of fellow veterans and military families. He served at multiple duty stations, primarily in Germany, as well as Hawaii, New Jersey and Colorado. Sergeant First Class Harold Stewart retired honorably at Fort Hood, Texas in October 1978. Following his military service, he completed his degree in Computer Science and continued serving in federal employment until his retirement in 2003.

While stationed in Neubrücke, he met the love of his life, Lieselotte “Lilly” Mörsdorf. They were married on February 2, 1960 and built a life rooted in devotion and partnership. Together they raised three children and often told tales of the many night shifts they worked side by side in the pediatric intensive care unit. They adoringly called each other “Onionhead” - the story behind that nickname was never fully explained, but their faces expressed stories of joy, mischief, compassion, and light whenever it was used. They shared 62 years of marriage.

Harold was a man of quiet strength - thoughtful and hardworking. His instinct was always to notice, to care, and to extend kindness. He gave freely of his time, his heart, and even his possessions, and he taught his children what it meant to love without hesitation. He was a devoted “hands on” father and we always knew that we were seen, valued and deeply loved.

For these last 36 years, he cherished life on his small ranch - he called it his ‘little slice of paradise’. He was happiest outdoors - caring for the land and an array of animals, riding his horses or simply mending his fences. He created tirelessly in his wood shop and could fix or build nearly anything. One of his favorite sayings was, “Who will speak for the animals - If not you, then who? He would endlessly nurture every stray or mistreated creature that crossed his path.

His beloved wife Lieselotte preceded him death in 2022. Harold passed away just one day before what would have been their 66th wedding anniversary. His family finds comfort believing that they are now joyfully reunited for eternity. He was also preceded in death by his parents and many of his brothers and sisters.

He is lovingly remembered by his three children - his daughter Dorothy, her husband Win and their sons Ryan & Ian; his daughter Christine; and his son John and his daughters Adrianna and Heather; along with many siblings, nieces, nephews and dear friends.

An interment ceremony for both Harold and Lieselotte is being planned at the Remembrance Gardens at Riverbend Church in Austin, Texas.

While there is no tragedy in the death of an 86 year old man who lived a full and meaningful life, his gentle spirit and steadfast presence will be deeply missed.

For the many years we had together - Today is for gratitude.