Maynard L. Stewart

Maynard Lane Stewart, of Lakewood, passed away on September 26, 2011, at 80 years of age. He was born in Galena Missouri on April 8, 1931 to Maynard ""Firpo"" and Ardis Jane Stewart. Maynard inherited his love of airplanes and aviation from his father, Firpo, who was an avid pilot. Maynard joined the United States Air Force in 1951 and proudly served until 1954. He was stationed at Luke Air Force base in Arizona and worked as an airline mechanic attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. His stint in the Air Force furthered his love of aviation and jump started his career in that arena. He moved to Denver in 1960 and began his career with Martin Marietta as a Quality Control Engineer. Maynard continued his enjoyment of the space craft and aviation industry while working at Martin. After 32 years he retired from Martin and began his next career (and favorite), retirement. Maynard thoroughly enjoyed 21 years of retirement. He loved his family and friends with a passion. During those years he nurtured and maintained close relationships with family and friends across the country. He loved us all so much. Maynard lovingly fulfilled his role as a devoted father (four daughters) and grandfather, or ""Poppa"" to two grandsons. They will all miss his sense of humor, gentle guidance, friendship, a shoulder to lean on, and most of all, his unwavering love. He had a love of airplanes and his favorite was the Stearman. He enjoyed going to air shows and aviation museums. As an avid fan of old time country and western music he gathered an extensive record collection over the years and enjoyed jamming in his music room (yes, he played the music really loud). He was a walking encyclopedia on country western music facts. He also loved playing the machines at Black Hawk and would always offer the advice, ""'always play max'"" He never passed up an opportunity to spend time in the mountains or go on a family adventure. He did not know a stranger. He could and would strike up a conversation with ease. Everywhere he went he made friends. We will miss all of these things about him. Maynard leaves to mourn his passing his beloved wife of 52 years, Shirley A. Stewart, and four daughters: Paula (Harold) Sullivan of Centennial; Janice (Bill) Lamon of Denver; Terri Stewart of Lakewood and Renee (Jon) Strauss of Littleton; two grandsons, Jon (Nicole) Sullivan and Michael Strauss; sister Louise (Winfield) Moore of Nixa, Missouri; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Mary Lou Neill Stewart (1958); a sister, Norma Lee Jones (1970); and his brother Gene Stewart (1994). Maynard's nephew, Stan Harriman, was killed in action while proudly serving his country in Afghanistan. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Stan the Man Foundation, 2615 Taylors Chapel Road, Dunn NC 28334. The family of Maynard Stewart would like to extend our sincere thanks and gratitude for the cards, calls, flowers and food. May each of you be showered with God's blessings. Please share your memories of Maynard and condolences with his family by selecting the ""Sign Guestbook"" link.