Alfred J Stewart

Al Stewart died peacefully in his sleep on August 4th, 2024. He was born in Kansas City, Missouri to Andrew and Ruby (Cureton) Stewart on November 19,1928. Al graduated from Manual High School and proceeded to join the Army of the United States on January 31st, 1951. He fought in the Korean War where he earned the level of Corporal. Al was Honorably Discharged from the Army on October 29th, 1952.

On May 28th,1954 Al married Betty Jane Picott, the love of his life. Al met Betty while they were working in the same office building. He used to tell the story about how the elevator operator played Cupid and introduced him to Betty because he was so shy. The rest was history. They were married for 41 years until her passing on July 23,1995.

Al worked for the Kansas City Police Department, joining the force on June 1st, 1954. Al retired after a distinguished career of 30 years. He began as a patrol man, spent a tour with the Homicide Unit and then Al completed his career in the Purchasing Department. During Al’s career, he became acquainted with FBI Director Clarence Kelly. Al was extremely proud of a note Clarence wrote to him inviting him to come to Washington, DC and become a member of the FBI. After retirement, Al thoroughly enjoyed getting together for breakfast with the regular group of retired police officers to tell stories and discuss the current events. He truly loved their time together!

Al was also a proud member of the Ararat Shriner’s. Noble Al was a Lifetime Member of the Oriental Band, the Provost Club and Past President of both. Al was the Provost Marshal at Ararat in 1976, and a Past Imperial Provost Marshal. He was a Charter Member of the Sandblasters and a Past President. He was a member of the Sheffield Lodge #625, and the York Rite. He became a Noble of Ararat Shrine on May 28th, 1976. Al loved his time in the Shrine. He was immensely proud of the charity work they did. He especially enjoyed the building of children’s hospitals in 3rd world countries.

It was through the Shrine, Al met Wilma Flansburg. Al and Wilma enjoyed spending time together, whether it was a Shrine event, vacation to see family in Ohio or just going for a ride around town. They were always on the go.

Al also loved his golf matches with his cronies. The stories were priceless, as was the time he spent with his dear friends.

One of the most recent highlights in Al’s life happened on November 3, 2016. Al visited the Korean War Memorial as part of the Honor Flight. Al was overwhelmed and deeply humbled by the honor. He could not say enough about how proud he was to be a veteran.

Al was welcomed into heaven by his parents; sister, Mickey; wife, Betty; sister-in -law, Verna Demko; brothers-in-law; Ron (Buck) Demko and Donnie Picott; nephews David Picott, and Ron (Tiger) Demko and loving companion, Wilma Flansburg.

He is survived by his niece and family; Kathy, (Rick), Zack, Ally and Maddy Niehaus; wonderful friend and caregiver, Karen Kelly; cousin, Arlo Hartman, niece-in-law, Lynne Demko; sister-in-law Rosi Picott; nephew Doug (Meghan)Picott; and niece-in-law; Lynn Picott, along with his great nephews and nieces.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the amazing team at Tiffany Springs Rehabilitation Center for their care and support.

The family would also like to thank “the village” that helped us with his care, “Doc” Owings and Jim Doolan for their visits and especially Karen Kelly. She has been an amazing, kind, and loving friend and support to us all.

Al was a loving husband, uncle, companion, soldier, veteran, and friend to all.

His unique, caring personality, wit, and dry sense of humor will be dearly missed.

Friends will be received on Monday, August 19,2024 for visitation from 9:00-10:00 a.m. at the Floral Hills Funeral Home and Cemetery. A memorial service will begin at 10:00 a.m.

The family requests, in lieu of flowers, any gifts in his memory be made to Ararat Hospital Transportation. Memo: Alfred J. Stewart or a charity of your choice.

Floral Hills Funeral Home and Cemetery

7000 Blue Ridge Blvd.

Kansas City, MO 64133

419-698-4301

Ararat Hospital Transportation

P.O. Box 1930

Blue Springs, MO 64014