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Rudolph Alan Stewart

Rudolph Stewart Obituary

Stewart, Rudolph Alan
July 1, 1943 - July 26, 2010

Rudolph Alan Stewart, 67, of Lakewood Ranch, died July 26, 2010 with his family near.
There will be a celebration of Rudy's life held this autumn, date to be announced.
Survivors include his beloved wife, Darlene; daughter, Heather; sons, Brad and Craig, his wife Nikki; brothers, Charles and John; and grandson, Blake; along with several nieces and nephews.
Rudy attended Cornell Univ, Rutgers Univ, Union J.C., Stevens Inst. of Technology and earned a BS in Chemical Engineering from Purdue in 1964. He is a proud, faithful member of Alpha Sigma Phi fraternity.
Beginning his career at Shell Chemical, he was employed over 24 yrs by Monsanto Plastics, creating the modern management of Authorized Prime Distribution as a standard of the plastics industry, and development of Montac Resin adhesive in the USA & Europe. He also pioneered development of Lustran Sparkle SAN.
From 1993 to the present, he founded and has been President of R. A. Stewart & Associates Inc, a Plastics Resource Mgt. company.
He established and authored "Production Evaluation Techniques--CDU Cannister" for the US Army. He achieved the rank of Captain in the United States Army Chemical Corps.
Rudy loved scuba and skin diving, underwater photography, golf, travel, skiing and chess & scrabble and sharing these things with his family.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Payton Wright Foundation for cancer, Bradenton, FL; The Make-a-Wish Foundation; Ronald McDonald House, or the Plastics Pioneers Assoc. scholarship fund.
Rudy was a most loving husband, proud father and grandfather and brother and will be longingly missed by his family.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Herald Tribune from Aug. 2 to Aug. 4, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Rudolph Stewart

33 Entries

Sam Leonard

July 27, 2025

Rudy you were so intelligent. And funny. Glad you and Darlene settled in my area.
Always valued your opinion durimg my Nomad days

Sam Leonard

July 27, 2024

Another year and I am reminded what a great friend Rudy was for the few years we had in Sarasota.
I hope Darlene is doing well. She was so nice to me as also.

Alana Stewart

November 20, 2023

I´m your granddaughter, Alana Stewart. I was born February 24, 2011, and I wish I had gotten to meet you. I´m 12 now, and really miss you.

Sam Leonard

July 27, 2023

You were one of a kind Rudy.
Ill never forget you and your kindness.

Sam Leonard

October 27, 2020

Although it has been ten years my memories of Rudy and Darlene are still very vivid.
I was a former Corporate guy turned Realtor in Sarasota. I met them late 1999 early 2000. Two things were very apparent their love for each other and Rudy’s incredible personality. Funny, very intelligent and informed. We formed a bond very quickly. They insisted on looking all over Florida while I said you will come right back here and to Lakewood Ranch I won that one.
They built a beautiful home and office in 2000.
From that point on they became friends We met frequently over the years and they always were interested in my personal life And Rudy gave me some very good insight and advice.

I wasn’t aware of his passing for a few months as I was always traveling by 2010. Never in Sarasota during the summer.

I needed to express my love for Rudy and how amazing it was that he showed so much genuine interest in how I was doing for years after I helped them find their new home.

My condolences to his family and many friends I’m sure they all would agree that Rudy made their lives all the more memorable and enjoyable by his presence.

Barbara Pierson

July 27, 2020

He was our neighbor in Wildwood, a great , helpful person. Loved his family.
I would like to get Darlene,s address. I lost it.

Donald Napolitan

July 27, 2019

I hope you got the flowers Darlene and I put in the ocean for you ,just so you know we love and miss you....Brother Don

Ida Abelson

September 16, 2010

Darlene -

On behalf of the Lakewood family, let me say thank you for bringing such joy to our cousin. How wonderful that you were able to share so many happy years.

September 14, 2010

Rudy: When you asked Darlene to marry you, we were so happy for both of you,and
Ronald was so happy to be asked to give her away to you, on your wedding day. Since that time,(30 years) we have been so happy for the both of you. We
were always glad when you came to New
England and stopped by the house. You
seemed more interested with my health then your own, but that was you,Rudy. You both had many good times together over the years, but you had some bad ones
also, but you took care of each other always. We have been reminiscing of the times when your children were young,when they were with you both in Somers, CT, and you came over to our house for the day and enjoyed the yard and the pool.You were a wonderful host when we came to visit in Missouri and Florida. You will always be with us in our memories and our prayers.
Ron, Patti & Jim

Barbara Pierson

September 14, 2010

I remember Rudy...my husband and I were neighbors of Rudy and Darlene for over 10 years. They were the best of neighbors that we ever had, and we had many neighbors over the last 50 years of marriage, having lived in 8 states. Rudy was kinda of crusty on the outside but had a heart of gold. He proved it one night when I fell in our garage and he was right there to help pick me up and then he stayed by our phone waiting for my husband's call to tell him I was in the E.R. as my husband was out of town. I saw Rudy go through much suffering and even a heart attack in the middle of their move. He was a true survivor and overcomer. We had our laughs too through the years sharing experiences regarding coyotes, bobcats, and deer bones in his yard. I loved his humor and never ending power of endurance. He will not be forgotten. Barbara and Roger Pierson

Ronald Napolitan

August 30, 2010

As I read Rudys Obituary I was very impressed with his education and achievements in his life.He was a thinker and quick on his feet with his wit and humor.But to me his greatest work was the love he had for my Godmother Darlene she was the light of his life and he never let that dim.
Love Ron&Carolyn

August 18, 2010

Rudy was a visionary in the plastic resin business. He was able to see the big picture, but also able to deal with minute details. We became friends over 20 years ago. He helped me build my business and was genuinely proud of the company's achievements. His sharp tongue and wit were one-of-a-kind. He will be missed, but never forgotten.

Brian Miles

A Happy Day

Darlene McGuire

August 13, 2010

Oh what will I remember? His smile, His laughter, His fight, never being able to be knocked down. Always lifting Himself up and all those around Him. Never giving up. I will remember happy days and sad days. The saddest being the day He left us. We lost our Little Bitty Buddy.
Darlene, God be with you and His children. He loved all of you so very dearly.
Rudy just loved which is what made Him so special.

Rich Howell

August 12, 2010

He was an impressive man during an era that was unremarkable for such. A well read and learned man, it was no wonder he was very successful. Serving in the US Army he worked his way from the enlisted ranks to an officer by utilizing his talents in the Chemical Corps. Then, going to a multinational company, he made an impact there which is something rare. Even more impressive he struck out on his own as an exceptional entrepeneur.
It certainly impressed me and I know others. More than that he was a great friend and uncle. He was a great father (and I suspect grandfather) providing crucial guidance. What else can be said about Rudy? He was able to get my aunt to marry him. If he could persuade Darlene, the rest of his story is not surprising.

Cyndy Picknally

August 12, 2010

Uncle Rudy and Aunt Darlene recently celebrated their 30 year wedding anniversary. That kind of love you don't find often. What I remember most is Rudy smiling or telling a funny story. He never let his discomfort show. After reading about Rudy's life I had no idea how accomplished he was in his field. He never bragged. Thats the kind of man he was. Thank you Rudy for loving and taking care of my Aunt. I know you are still watching over her. We will miss you dearly.

Heather Stewart

August 11, 2010

All I can say, is he was the best Dad and "Poppa"! I was very close with my father and will treasure all of the fun memories and traditions we shared as a family.

August 9, 2010

Darlene: I was responsible for field sales at Monsanto when Rudy interviewed for a position - around 35-40 years ago. He was a piece of work and I wondered if he was real. Well he proved it and more; sharp, intelligent, compassionate, funny, a doer and achiever. Glad our paths crossed. Stay strong and well. Ag and I send our love. Tony

Elaine Bokach

August 9, 2010

What great, enjoyable times we shared with Rudy and Darlene playing golf and seeing him in the fitness center. Rudy always had a funny joke or caring story to share. I will miss his joyful smile and constant ability to share a kind word. Bless you, Darlene, his spirit will always be with you. Love, Pete and Elaine

Captain Rudy

Donna Napolitan

August 8, 2010

I have many great memories with Rudy but the most recent one will always stay with me. Bill and I were in Florida and "Captain" Rudy took us out for a boat ride. I looked back and saw him singing away after turning the music way up as loud as it could go. His grin went from one side of the boat to the other. Even though he was having a difficult time getting around he made sure that a good time was had by all. That's just the way he was. I will miss our home coming pizza suppers at Red Rose and the phone calls that always opened with 'Donnnaaaaaa"! Love ya Uncle Rudy! Rest in Peace.
Donna Napolitan

Lori Cullen

August 8, 2010

Unfortunately I did not have the pleasure of meeting Rudy, but had heard many fine things about him and Darlene's devotion to his care. Only a wonderful person could merit such love and care and my heart goes out to Darlene and the family. Our prayers are with you.

June Rampinelli

August 8, 2010

Rudy was a very special person. His wit was ever present as was his devotion to Darlene. For her part, no task was too great of effort for his comfort too daunting. As a couple their example cannot be matched. We must all keep him in our memories and her in our hearts.

August 8, 2010

Dear Darlene:

Where do I begin? Our lives have been so inter-twined over the years. Rudy was one of a kind. We shared so many special events from the day you two married. I was privileged to be you Maid of Honor (with Bob Riedel by my side as Best Man and also Rudy's good friend). As time went on, we shared so many family events, Christmas, birthdays, cookouts, swims at Ron and Pat's pool, and bridge games with Tillie (Mom). He relished those times with such glee, didn't he?

When Dick wasso ill and failing, Rudy would phone him. I don't know what he was saying, but,he could always make Dick laugh. That was his gift to me without him ever realizing it. His many visits to Mom when she was in Heritage Hall when he was not well himself were to be admired and appreciated (but he loved her).

For all of these reasons, Rudy will always have a special place in my memory book and in my heart. Rest well, my friend, you have earned it.

Love, sister-in-law, Pauline

John Howell

August 7, 2010

I was always greatly impressed with Rudy's intellect and he never failed to bowl me over with his sharp wit. But I was most impressed by the great joy that he gave to my aunt. Her happiness meant the world to Rudy and they were thick as thieves through it all. His rock solid devotion impacted our family for the better and came through loud and clear at our memorable family gatherings. Whenever I fondly recall those times I'll remember that Rudy was, above all, a man of virtue. We can best honor him by imitating those virtues. Requiescat in pace.

Doug Howell

August 7, 2010

Love, loyalty, faith, determination: these shine as bright as Rudy's intelligence and humor. He loved my aunt more than anyone could describe and he has been part of our family since I was a child. I'll miss my uncle every day, but always with gratitude for the many good things he did for so many people. A salute for Captain Stewart.

Lydia Drelles

August 6, 2010

Darlene I did not meet Rudy but you always talked about him with such love and pride that I thought he was always part of the group. My most sincere condolences to you and all your family. My prayers and thoughts are with you. Muchos besos. Lydia

Darlene Stewart

August 5, 2010

On July 26, 2010, a light went out of my life and heart and the world for me suddenly changed. Each day I take another deep breathe and keep moving and wait for that moment when he might brush by me.

Rudy was an extraordinary man and husband. He never let a day go by without thanking me for something I had done for him or a meal cooked, and said "I love you to pieces'' each day. When we drove together, he usually reached over just to touch me....a constant reminder of his love and affection.

Always intellectually curious, devouring the Wall Street Journal and Investors Business Daily, ordering and studying obscure subjects on tape and subjecting me to the same, in the hope I suppose, I might absorb some smarts by osmosis. He was my teacher, my mentor, my friend, my husband and my lover.

When able, he loved to scuba dive and play golf. In recent years, Rudy enjoyed the theatre, the symphony, travel, any board game, his WII, boating and his swimming pool.

If Rudy Stewart called you friend, you were that for life. No exceptions. He shared his life experiences and intellect freely.

He taught himself the complexities of the investment game ...no mean feat.

Rudy's unconditional love for each of his children, Heather Jane, Bradley Alan, and Craig Ashley knew no bounds and he was extremely proud of each ones' personal accomplishements. He adored his daughter-in-law Nikki for the joy she brought to Craig. His first grandchild, Heather's son, Blake William, age 2, whom he taught to shake hands properly as well as do 'piggies', made him smile broadly whenever he saw or heard him say "Poppa".

I will miss every little detail about my Rudy for the rest of my life.

With all my love,
Darlene
"The Bees Knees"

Don Napolitan

August 4, 2010

Rudy was a stand up guy in my book, and always will be...
Brother Don

August 4, 2010

A sincere and special friend for so many years. His sense of humor, his spirit and his love of life and others dear to him define our everlasting memory..with love to Darlene...Dee and Bob

Lynda McCabe

August 4, 2010

We will all miss Rudy very much. He brought so much joy & happiness to Aunt Darlene. He always made us laugh and helped make family get-togethers happy ones! Love Paul, Lynda, Brian & Kevin

Kim LaFon

August 4, 2010

I will miss my Uncle Rudy. Our thought and prayers are with all of his family and friends.

August 3, 2010

We want everyone to know - If you could pick your neighbors - You would pick Rudy! He was very smart - very funny - very good husband - very honest - and he would mind his own business! What more can you ask for in a neighbor? He will be greatly missed by two of his not as good neighbors that are in mourning - Keith and Rhonda Maule

Skip Myers

August 3, 2010

I worked with Rudy a long time. He was well respected in the plastics industry. He was unique. I loved his laugh and attitude. Miss you.

August 3, 2010

Darlene,

We'll keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. Rudy will be missed by all who knew him. We especially loved his sense of humor.

Love,
Glenda & Ron

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