Obituary of James E. Stewart

James E. Stewart, 75, of Delhi, passed away Wednesday, September 16, 2015 at O'Connor Hospital in Delhi, surrounded by his family. Born on October 19, 1939 in Delhi, he was the son of the late John E. and Berniece (DeSilva) Stewart, and he grew up on the family farm. James was a 1958 graduate of Delaware Academy, he then went on to Hartwick College and then received a Master's Degree from the University of Arizona. James was married to his wife of nearly 15 years, Laura Stewart on October 7, 2000. He enjoyed hiking, camping and traveling with his wife. James was a Ham Radio Operator under the call sign of KB2RLH and also was president of the Walton Ham Radio Club. He liked riding motorcycles and enjoyed riding his CanAm Spyder. James was active in local politics and was past Chairman of the Delaware County Democratic Committee and also worked for NYS Congressman Matthew F. McHugh during the late 1970's. He enjoyed his teaching career. James was a History Professor at SUNY Delhi for many years and recently being awarded the title of Professor Emeritus from the college. He was also very involved with the United University Professionals during his tenure at the College. He enjoyed working with the faculty at SUNY Delhi, James had a great sense of humor and liked to play practical jokes and pranks on his fellow co-workers. He was loved by both his students and co-workers at the College. Besides his wife, Laura of Delhi, James is survived by two sons: Damon James (Nicki) Stewart of Albany and Jay Edward (Edith) Stewart of Northbrook, IL; stepchildren: Raegan (Travis) Reed of Delhi, Craig (Nicole) Martin and Bradley Martin both of FL; grandchildren: Ian, Mia, Jack & Anne Stewart, and Lilly & Tyler Reed; sisters: Kathleen (Ben, deceased) Jone of NYC, Kathryn (Zoltan) Hegedus of Storrs, CT and Sue Ann (Andrew, deceased) Raring of Lewisville, NC; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. A memorial and celebration of James's life will be held at the Centennial Center on SUNY Delhi Campus, on Sunday, September 27th, 2015 at 1.p.m. with the Rev. Bert More, officiating. Memorial contributions may be made payable to the College Foundation C/O the James E. Stewart Scholarship Endowment, College Foundation, 454 Delhi Drive, Delhi, NY 13753 Arrangements are with Hall & Peet Funeral Home, Delhi Please visit James's online memorial at www.hallandpeet.com and share a condolence or story with his family.