James A. Stewart

James Anthony Stewart, 82, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend passed away on Friday, November 4, 2022 in West Des Moines, Iowa after a long bout of happiness and fulfillment. He was surrounded by his family and the love of his life and wife of 58 years, Karen. Jim was the first son of James W. Stewart and Adeline (Ann) Loffredo Stewart and was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Stewart. He was the proud father to Scott (Kim) of West Des Moines, IA, Jill (Kevin) of Shaker Heights, OH, Tom (Tarra) of Urbandale, IA, and Amy (Bart) of Omaha, NE. His adored grandchildren are Chloe, Claudia, Greta, Mackenzie and Samantha, Zach, Evan, Ben, Charlie and Maggie, and Billy and Jane.

Jim graduated from the University of Iowa – tailgating to the end with many generations of Hawkeye family and friends. He was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon at Iowa where met his best friend, Karen Conkling. Together they built a beautiful life, first in Des Moines and later in the Quad Cities before returning to Des Moines to retire. He dedicated his career to health care services and spent his many years as Vice President of Mercy Hospital and President of Community Health Care in Davenport, IA.

Jim was an avid woodworker and tinkered in his much-loved workshop, where if he had one tool – he had 3 more of the same. He was a perfectionist and prized himself with a clean and tidy garage. He spent his outdoor time fishing, spending time in his yard, and washing his cars. He also enjoyed many holiday gatherings playing cards with family and friends. Jim was a kind and considerate man; a true gentleman with a loving heart.

We are grateful and want to thank those who helped us during this difficult journey; the caregivers from 3801 Grand, Arbor Springs and WesleyLife Hospice.

Visitation will be from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Thursday, November 10, 2022 at St. Augustin Catholic Church, 545 42nd Street, Des Moines, IA. A Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow at 11:30 with a light lunch immediately after the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers that those who wish may make donations in Jim’s name to The Alzheimer’s Association, 1415 28th Street Ste. 4430, West Des Moines 50266.