Robert Lynn Stewart

Born May 7, 1936, in Toledo, Robert was raised in Detroit by his parents, Clifford and Helen Stewart (née Goodman), alongside his beloved sister, Sandra. A proud 1954 graduate of Cass Technical High School, Robert’s early talent in commercial art laid the foundation for a remarkable career behind the camera. His artistic eye and strong work ethic were further shaped during his service as a photographer in the United States Army, where he first discovered a lifelong passion for photography.

It was while working as a photographer at the O’Connor Portrait Studio inside the JL Hudson’s department store that Robert met the love of his life, Mary McHugh. The two married in 1960 and built a beautiful life together in St. Clair Shores, raising four children and running their business, Stewart Fine Portraits. Over the decades, Robert and Mary, later joined by their son Cliff and daughter-in-law Donna, photographed generations of families, graduates, weddings and milestones throughout the St. Clair Shores and Grosse Pointe communities. Robert possessed a rare gift for making people instantly feel comfortable, valued and truly seen. He saw beauty in everyone who stepped before his lens.

While portrait photography was at the heart of his work, Robert’s passion for the craft extended far beyond the studio. He traveled throughout the United States and abroad with his large-format cameras, capturing landscapes, architecture and everyday moments with artistry and wonder. As much as he loved photographing people and places, he equally cherished the quiet creativity of the darkroom, where images came to life through patience, precision and vision.

Robert was known not only for his talent, but also for his remarkable memory, warm humor and gift for storytelling through both photographs and words. Even after more than 50 years behind the camera, he could often recognize and remember former clients decades later. He had an uncanny ability to recall names, faces and stories, leaving a lasting impression on countless people whose lives he documented.

Throughout his distinguished career, Robert remained deeply committed to learning, teaching and elevating the profession of photography. He understood early on the value of learning from others and was deeply committed to sharing knowledge. He credited organizations such as the Professional Photographers of America, the Professional Photographers of Michigan and the Detroit Professional Photographers with helping shape both his artistry and business. In 1995, Robert and Mary co-founded the Great Lakes Institute of Photography alongside several Michigan colleagues.

In recognition of his extraordinary contributions to the field, Robert received numerous honors throughout his lifetime. He was the first photographer in Michigan to earn a fellowship from the American Society of Photographers and was later recognized by the organization for his selfless dedication and achievements that advanced professional photography. From 2005 through 2010, Robert served as president of the Cameracraftsmen of America.

Robert adored his family and was deeply loved in return. He was the beloved “Granddude” to 11 grandchildren and one great-grandson, each one proudly confident they were his “favorite.”

Robert is survived by his wife of 65 years, Mary (née McHugh) Stewart; his devoted children, Clifford (Donna) Stewart II, Allison (James) Brady, Kristine (Richard) Hass, and Mary Beth (Ronald) Willette; grandchildren Margaret and Evelyn Brady; Samantha, Clarice and Elizabeth Stewart; Helen (Pedro) Sánchez, Mary Claire (Michael) Calus, Henry (Katelyn) Hass, and Lillian and Clifford Hass; Aaron Willette; and great-grandson Henry Hass Jr.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Sandra (Joe) Miccio, and his dearest friend, Patrick Buschmohle.

Robert lived a life marked by creativity, humility, generosity, and deep love for his family, the community in which he lived, and the Lord’s remarkable gift of creation. Through his photographs, he preserved moments that became treasured memories for countless people. Through his kindness and presence, he made others feel important, known, and valued.

May the angels welcome him into paradise.

Visitation will be held Friday, May 22nd from 2 pm to 8 pm at A.H. Peters Funeral Home, 20705 Mack Avenue, Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236.

Robert will lie in state from 9 am until time of the funeral Mass at 10 am at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 21620 Greater Mack Avenue Saint Clair Shores, MI 48080

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society in memory of Robert. (https://donate.cancer.org/?campaign=honormemorialbutton&lang=en)