Thomas "Tom" V. Stewart

Tom was born on September 1, 1944, in Rochester, NY, the eldest son of the late Thomas & Mary Stewart. Tom grew up in the Gates area, and after high school, he served in the U.S. Air Force.

Tom was driven by a deep passion for all things mechanical. He could fix anything with a motor. His mechanical skills and affinity for classic cars led to him establishing his antique automobile restoration business, Flathead Sales & Service, for which he would become widely known. His reputation for attention to detail in the restoration of Ford Model T’s and Model A’s, would have him restoring cars for customers worldwide. He also had a great love of airplanes and was an accomplished pilot. He owned several airplanes and even had his own private airfield at his farm. He was a committed member of the Genesee Pilots Association, The Quiet Birdmen (Q.B. Club), The Horseless Carriage Club of America, and the V8 Club, and was very well known in these communities. Beyond that, Tom also had a great love for animals, having several dear pets throughout his lifetime.

Thomas V. Stewart, a cherished partner, stepfather, and grandfather figure, passed away doing what he loved, leaving behind a legacy of love, quiet strength, and unwavering dedication to his family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Thomas shared a loving partnership with Mary L. Gifaldi, with whom he spent 32 devoted years. Together, they built a blended family filled with warmth, resilience, and deep bonds that stood the test of time.

Thomas embraced the role of stepfather, forming meaningful bonds with Mary’s children and caring for them as his own: Reuben James Lynch III and his significant other, Kristi Recore; Jason W. Nunnenkamp and his wife, Chelsea Nunnenkamp; Brendi Nunnenkamp; and Nevaeh Gifaldi, who lovingly knew Thomas as her grandfather.

He was also a proud grandfather figure to Reuben and Kristi’s children—Kylie, Cameron and Kendell Lynch, and Jacob W. Riley—and to Jason and Chelsea’s three children—Lance, Shane, and Reed Nunnenkamp. Thomas brought a steady presence into their lives, attending milestones, offering encouragement, and providing the kind of love and guidance that made a lasting impact.

Thomas will be remembered for his quiet strength, quick wit, and unwavering loyalty to those he loved. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness and dedication that continues to live on in the hearts of his family and friends

He is survived by his brother, John “Jack” Stewart (retired Gates PD) of Gates, NY, and his sister, Kathleen Stewart and her husband, Patrick Harkins of Vienna, VA. He is also survived by his nephew, RPD Lt. Justin Stewart and his wife Sarah Stewart, and their children, Aiden, Ava, and Cameron Jack Stewart, as well as several cousins and dear friends.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 from 2-4PM and 6-8PM at the Funeral Home of Alvah Halloran & Son, 2125 Chili Ave. Rochester, NY 14624. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in Tom’s memory to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation at T2T.org