Henry Hulson Stuart

From a young age, Hank was a natural leader—strong, disciplined, and competitive, with a steadiness that set him apart. A standout athlete and scholar, he earned All City and All State quarterback honors and was recruited by schools across the country. Awarded both athletic and academic scholarships, Hank chose to play football at the University of Michigan so he could remain close to his high school sweetheart, Mary Lou Ryan, whom he married during his sophomore year. Those who knew Hank knew that decision said everything about him. Their 67 year marriage was built on loyalty, mutual respect, shared laughter, and an abiding love.

Hank was, in every sense, a Michigan Man—someone who lived with integrity, discipline, loyalty, enthusiasm, and commitment. He showed up fully in every role he held, never seeking attention, but always earning respect.

His competitive spirit revealed itself early as captain of his high school football and basketball teams and continued when he fulfilled a lifelong dream of playing college football under legendary coach Bump Elliott. Whether on the field, on the golf course, or at the family table during a board game, Hank played to win—but even more importantly, he played with heart.

Beneath that competitiveness was a profoundly kind and thoughtful man. Hank worked tirelessly to provide for his family and took satisfaction in serving and caring for others. He spent his career at IBM, where he was part of the transformative era that reshaped how technology influenced work and daily life from the 1960s through the 1990s. His career allowed he and Mary Lou to travel the world together, sharing adventures that enriched their lives and deepened their bond.

Faith anchored Hank’s life. As a young man, he served as an altar boy and later gave his time generously as an usher and church committee member whenever he was able. His faith was not loudly proclaimed but quietly lived—evident in his generosity, humility, and calm strength during difficult moments.

Hank also knew how to enjoy life. His quick wit, warm humor, and unmistakable laugh filled rooms with joy. Family memories include trips to the zoo, rides on the Boblo Island boat, Kensington Park adventures, ice cream outings, long summer vacations up north, evenings of board games, and gatherings where dessert was never optional. Even during his final hospital stay, Hank still delighted in the sweets his daughters brought him, finding joy in the simple pleasures of life.

In his later years, Hank faced Parkinson’s disease with determination and resolve. He fought as hard as he could, in large part because he willed himself to stay—to ensure Mary Lou would never face life without her partner at her side.

Above all else, Hank was a family man. He and Mary Lou raised four daughters, each of whom went on to marry and have three children of their own. At the time of his passing, Hank was the proud great grandfather of seven great grandchildren, with more on the way. His greatest happiness was found in family gatherings, laughter around the table, and the comfort of being together.

Hank is survived by his daughters Linda (Mick) Cosgrove, Kathy (John) Price, Sherri (Rick) Oliver, and Carolyn (Marc) Collins; his grandchildren and great grandchildren, who were the light of his later years. He is also survived by his sisters Annie Chanter and Shirley Hollowaty, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Mary Lou Stuart; his grandson Nicholas Collins; his parents Henry and Ann (Vurich) Stuart; his brother and sister in law Jack and Kathy Stuart; his sister Maureen Hay; and his brother in law Paul Hollowaty.

Hank lived with quiet integrity, unwavering faith, and steadfast devotion to his family. He led without seeking recognition, loved without condition, and found his greatest joy in being present for those he loved.

Cremation has taken place. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 28th, at 9:30 a.m. at St. Aidan Catholic Church, located at 17500 Farmington Road, Livonia, Michigan 48152, with Fr. Alberto Bondy presiding.

Friends and family are invited to gather at the church beginning at 9:00 a.m., prior to the Mass, to offer condolences and join in remembrance. In lieu of flowers, consider a contribution to St. Vincent de Paul in Hank’s memory.