Michael Stewart

 Michael S. Stewart, Jr., 78, of Utica, passed away April 13, 2022, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. 

Michael was born November 2, 1943, a son of the late Michael and Josephine (DePaul) Stewart. He grew up and spent his life in Utica, attending St. Joseph’s Elementary and Middle School and began High School at UCA, until 11th grade, when it became Notre Dame High School. He was a member of the first graduating class in 1961.  Michael met the love of his life, Margaret (Peggy) Magistro, at a St. Agnes CYO school dance.  Shortly thereafter, on June 12, 1965, Michael was united in marriage with Peggy and they enjoyed a loving and devoted marriage of over fifty-six years. Michael spent his career in the grocery business, making many friends along the way.  In the early days, he worked at Victory Markets and then advanced his career, as a sales representative for Best Foods, retiring in 2002. After retirement, Michael worked at the Utica Transit Authority, where besides work, he found enjoyment socializing with the ladies in the office.

Besides his beloved wife, Peggy; Michael is survived by his children, Michael and Carleen Stewart, Kristin and Gary Casab, and John and Meredith Stewart; his grandchildren, Cassidy, Michael, and Cameron Stewart, Gary and Lucas Casab, and Sammy, John, and Charlie Stewart.  He is also survived by his brother, Vincent Stewart; sister, Cheryl (Bob) Rollins; and sister-in-law, Patty Gentile; and many  nieces and nephews. In addition are lifelong friends and neighbors, Roger and Joanne Lauren. He was predeceased by his father and mother, Michael and Josephine Stewart and his brother-in-law, Carl Gentile.

Michael was a loving, supportive, and proud father and a captive admirer of his grandchildren. As the family patriarch, his guidance and wisdom were always sought. His greatest accomplishment was being a proud Popi. No matter the venue or weather forecast, he could always be found attending all of his grandchildren’s events, including football, softball, and basketball games, track meets, dance recitals, and the Boilermaker, to name a few. Having grandkids gave him a different mindset and he actively followed their pursuits of interest. They were the joy of his life and often the focus of his stories, while holding court, at the table he shared with his buddies at Daniele’s; he was extremely proud of them.

Mike and Peggy spent many wonderful years making memories at Hilton Head Island with Patty and Carl Gentile. Mike loved the sunshine and going to the beach. When he was not hanging out at Daniele Imports or Tommy’s Barber Shop, he was thinking about what was on the menu, and be assured that the menu always included his requisite oven toast, extra crispy. He particularly enjoyed making fish dishes during Christmas time to share with his family, and having the grandkids over for linguini and clams. Food was a huge source of enjoyment and he also loved spending time at his children’s houses having dinner, especially Sundays at his daughter Kristin’s house, where many laughs were had, and this time was so special for him.

A special thank you to Dr. Hsin Kwung Li and Dr. Samir Desai, for their care and support during Michael’s illness. We cannot thank all of the nurses at Hospice and Palliative Care enough, for all of their love and concern during the most difficult times.

Dad and Popi, our family will never be the same without you, but, we are comforted in knowing you will always be in our hearts. “In heaven, we will find each other again, for there is no heaven without you.”

Michael’s Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, April 18, 2022, at 11 a.m., at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, in Utica. The family will receive visitors immediately following mass.

In Michael’s memory, please consider donations to Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc. at hospicecareinc.org/donations

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