Obituary of William John Stuart

William John Stuart (“John”) passed away peacefully on April 17, 2026, at the Chatham-Kent Hospice after a courageous battle with cancer, just days shy of his 76th birthday. John was born on April 21, 1950, in Leamington, Ontario, and moved to Chatham with his family at the age of eight, where he would build a life filled with family, work, and the hobbies he loved.

At the age of 19, John met the love of his life, Gladys, on a blind date. Together they shared 54 wonderful years of marriage, building a family and a lifetime of memories.

John was predeceased by his parents, Leo Stuart(1973) and Mary Stuart (Gough)(2024), in law’s Emmy and Ken Hughes, brother in law Glyn, and brother in law Gord. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Gladys; his children, Andrea (Jay) and Jason; his brother Tom (Cathy); his sister Clare; Sister in law Celia; his nieces and nephews, Paul (Brandi), Cam (Brandon), Mike (Sanaa), and Danielle (Darcy). He also leaves behind several friends and his beloved grandson, Landon, who will deeply miss the special times they shared playing on the train board.

John was a dedicated and hardworking man. He spent over 30 years working at Eaton Yale in Chatham and Wallaceburg, followed by 15 years in Automotive at Walmart, retiring at the age of 65.

He was an avid hobbyist with many passions. John loved building models, flying RC airplanes, reading Western novels, wood working, wood carving, watching Nascar, and watching movies of all kinds. He was especially passionate about model trains and spent years creating an impressive train board that brought him great pride and joy. John had a love of labrador retrievers, and he was also a hunter who cherished every part of the experience, especially being outdoors in nature.

John also carried many cherished memories from his younger years and adventurous spirit. Among his favourite life experiences were a backpacking trip through the mountains of Alberta on horseback, and a memorable motorcycle journey out East with his wife Gladys and dear friends Gene and Barb. These adventures remained special stories and treasured chapters of his life.

John was a kind and thoughtful man who cared deeply for others. He was firm in his convictions and known for his stubborn streak, but was also known to have a soft, playful humour. He loved teasing Gladys, making silly jokes, and offering witty observations that brought smiles to those around him.

Though our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in knowing John is no longer in pain and is now riding beautiful horses through peaceful meadows, beneath sunny skies, alongside the buffalo on the other side.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of the Chatham Kent Health Alliance, and especially the nurses and staff of the Chatham Kent Hospice for their compassionate care and support.

If desired, donations can be made to the Chatham Kent Hospice Foundation or charity of your choice.

As per John’s wishes, cremation has taken place.  A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, with a drop-in gathering from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Mainstreet Lounge, inside the Chatham Capitol Theatre, second level. Free parking is available at the back, with entry through the front doors. 

McKinlay Funeral Home

459 St. Clair Street, Chatham

519-351-2040