Stewart Deem

Stewart A. Deem CHESAPEAKE - Stewart Arthur Deem, 95, passed away Nov. 10, 2010 with friends and loved ones by his side at Chesapeake Regional Medical Center. He was born July 9, 1915 and was fond of saying "I'm ninety-five plus." A native of Mineral Wells, W.Va., he was the son of the late Washington L. and Frances Holland Deem. He was also predeceased by five brothers, six sisters and stepmother, Roxie Deem. He is survived by his loving wife of 71 years, Oda Burdette Deem; half brother, Basil Deem of California; and several nieces and nephews. Mr. Deem retired from the U.S. Government Naval Rework Facility, NAS, after 34 years. He enjoyed gardening and sharing his vegetables with neighbors and friends. He loved animals and loved raising goats and pigs for some time. His furry white poodle, Sunday, will miss him. He was a member of Deep Creek Baptist Church and active Mason for 62 years. Mr. Deem was a past master of Naomi Lodge No. 87; past commander Grice Commandery No. 16; past High Priest of Royal Arch Chapter No. 1; past patron Westminister Chapter No. 99, OES; district instructor of work 35A for 53 years; and past district deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Virginia 35A. He also held honorary memberships in Ruth Lodge, Charles T. Morton Lodge and Victory Daylight Lodge. Mr. Deem was a vivacious people-person, who particularly enjoyed visiting with his friends over the past few months. A special thanks to the staff and doctors of Chesapeake Regional Medical Center for their excellent care and compassion they showed him during the past few weeks. A service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 13, at the Norfolk Masonic Temple, 7001 Granby St., Norfolk, officiated by the Rev. Larry Ryals. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow in Rosewood Memorial Park, in the Masonic Garden. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Deep Creek Baptist Church Building Fund or the Grand Lodge of Virginia. You may pay condolences to the family at www.kellumfuneralhome.com.