Larry Stewart, age 79, passed away Friday, October 27, 2023, at his home. He was born December 9, 1943, in Monroe County, the son of Walter and Maxine (Simms) Stewart. He graduated from Oskaloosa High School with the class of 1962. He then went to Indian Hills Community College and took Auto-body repair classes. Following college, he worked for Luke’s Autobody shop for ten years He then worked nights at John Deer until he opened an Auto- body shop of his own. He was self-employed for 13 years. Then he went and worked at Jerry’s Auto and retired after 16 years.
On November 11, 1970, he was united in marriage to Pat Cowman in Oskaloosa. To this union, their son Eric was born. Larry was a skilled carpenter; His skills provided the family with two houses that he built. His skills extended far beyond just building houses. He enjoyed building intricate birdhouses. He shared a love for all animals, especially exotic ones. He embraced the challenge of taking care of orphaned young animals that would eventually turn into family pets. In addition to carpentry, Larry had a passion for working on cars and tractor painting.
He is survived by his wife, Pat Stewart of Oskaloosa, son Eric (Teresa) Stewart of Oskaloosa, and granddaughters, Isabella and Amarah Stewart. He was preceded by his parents, his brothers, Kenneth, Dwight, LaVerne, and Ernest Stewart, and his mother and father-in-law, Kenneth and Helen Cowman.
Funeral Services will be held Wednesday, November 1st, 2023, at 2 p.m. in the Bates Funeral Chapel with Reverend Brad Westercamp officiating. Burial will be at the Highland Cemetery, in Eddyville, Iowa. The Bates Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. Visitation will be held Tuesday, October 31, in the Bates Funeral Chapel with family present from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. to greet friends and relatives. In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to the American Cancer Society or the Serenity House in Oskaloosa.
