Mr. Stewart Arthur Deem

Chesapeake-Stewart Arthur Deem, 95, passed away on November 10, 2010, with friends and loved ones by his side at Chesapeake Regional Medical Center. He was born on July 9, 1915 and was fond of saying “I’m ninety-five plus.”

A native of Mineral Wells, West Virginia, he was the son of the late Washington L. and Frances Holland Deem. He is also predeceased by five brothers, six sisters, and step-mother, Roxie Deem.

He is survived by his loving wife of seventy-one years, Oda Burdette Deem; half-brother, Basil Deem of California; and several nieces and nephews.

Mr. Deem retired from the U.S. Government Naval Rework Facility, NAS after thirty-four years. He enjoyed gardening and sharing his vegetables with neighbors and friends. He loved animals and loved raising goats and pigs for some time. His furry white poodle, Sunday, will miss him. He was a member of Deep Creek Baptist Church and active Mason for sixty-two years. Mr. Deem was a past Master of Naomi Lodge #87; past Commander Grice Commandery #16; past High Priest of Royal Arch Chapter #1; past Patron Westminister Chapter #99, OES; District Instructor of work 35A for fifty-three years; and past District Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Virginia 35A. He also held Honorary Membership in Ruth Lodge, Charles T. Morton Lodge, and Victory Daylight Lodge.

Mr. Deem was a vivacious people person, who particularly enjoyed visiting with his friends over the past few months.

A special thanks to the staff and doctors of Chesapeake Regional Medical Center for there excellent care and compassion they showed him during the past few weeks.

A service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, November 13, 2010 at the Norfolk Masonic Temple, 7001 Granby St, Norfolk, VA, officiated by the Rev. Larry Ryals. A visitation will be held 1 hour prior to the service. Burial will follow in Rosewood Memorial Park, in the Masonic Garden.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Deep Creek Baptist Church Building Fund or the Grand Lodge of Virginia, Richmond VA.