James "Jim" Stewart

James Leonard Stewart, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and master craftsman, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2025. Born on March 23, 1938, James lived a life marked by hard work, creativity and a knack for fixing things. 

He was predeceased by his parents, his only sibling Bob, his first wife Barbara, his cherished wife of 25 years, Sandie, and his kind and caring son, David. He is survived by his devoted wife, Georgia, who brought renewed joy and companionship into his later years.

He leaves behind a legacy through his children: Mike (Andrea), Joanne (Donovan), and Terri (Bert), from his earlier years; stepchildren Douglas and Sherra (Chris), from his marriage to Sandie; and his dear grandchildren: Jeffrey, Jennifer, Joey, Tabitha, Christopher, Melissa, Sarah, Robbie, April, Chauntel, Buck, Carson, Selene, and Mia; and 25 great-grandchildren who brought him pride and joy.

He is also survived by three stepchildren—Monica (Dan), Barbara (Rob), and Matthew, 7 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren, all whom he lovingly embraced through his marriage to Georgia.

Funeral services will be held directly at St. Maria Goretti Church, 500 Northgate Dr, in Dyer, on Saturday, June 21, 2025 with visiting from 9 am until the time of mass at 10 am. Burial will follow at Calumet Park Cemetery in Merrillville.

A graduate of Morton High School, Jim began his career installing kitchen cabinets with his uncle, where he discovered a lifelong passion for woodworking. He later became a machinist at Inland Steel, rising to the position of machine shop foreman. His craftsmanship extended beyond the workplace—he was a master woodworker who built homes and custom furniture with skill and care.

Jim was raised in the church and, in his mature years, found a spiritual home in the Catholic faith—a journey that brought him peace and fulfillment.

In his younger years, Jim enjoyed fishing and camping. Later in life, he took an interest in golf and the symphony. A lifelong reader, he was rarely without a book and always ready to help with a crossword puzzle.

Jim will be remembered for his quiet strength, generous spirit, and the beautiful things he built—both with his hands and in the lives of those who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Hospice of the Calumet area would be appreciated.