William Edward (Bill) Stewart died December 28, 2016 in Hillsboro Oregon. He was 87 years old.

Bill was born August 29, 1929, the third child of Floyd and Ethel Stewart in York, Pennsylvania. At the age of nine, after the death of his mother, Bill went to live at the Milton Hershey school in Hershey, Pennsylvania, from where he graduated in 1947.

Bill married Barbara Ann Sambol in 1952 and seven children followed – Colleen Elise, Cherise Ellen, William Edward II, David Eugene, Cynthia Eileen, Dennis Egan, and Caren Elizabeth. After his and Barbara’s divorce in 1971, Bill married Barbara Stephens and added 2 stepchildren to the family – Lori and Judy.

Bill spent more than 14 years in the U.S. Navy, serving on Midway Island and aboard the USS Midway aircraft carrier. Bill loved meeting people. Much of his career after the Navy was spent in the sales field where he traveled extensively and made many lasting friendships.

He was active in the Hillsboro Elks lodge where he and Barbara are lovingly remembered for all the years they played Santa and Mrs. Santa for the children. He was very involved in the Lodge’s Boy Scouts programs especially the Eagle Scouts Awards. Bill served as Exalted Ruler in 1994-95.

Bill was a certified Ordained Minister officiating over many weddings including those of some of his children, grandchildren and friends. Bill will always be remembered as a positive and optimistic man who left this impression on everyone he met. He always greeted everyone he met with a warm smile and hug or handshake. His comforting shoulder was there whenever needed.

Bill’s greatest joy was his children, grandchildren and his beloved dogs Winston, Barney, and Andy and the outdoors. He spent many wonderful times on the rivers and lakes around the Northwest fishing and camping with family and friends.

He is survived by his wife Barbara, four daughters, three sons, two step-daughters, 14 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his brother John Stewart and sister Edith Smith.