David R. Stuart

David Robert Stuart of Sonoma, CA, left this world peacefully at home, surrounded by those who loved him most. He faced prostate cancer with the same quiet resolve that marked his life, conquering it once before, then meeting it again with courage and grace until he passed just after his 86th birthday. His will never waivered.
The son of George A. and Louise F. Stuart, David grew up in the quaint town of Medfield, MA. A boy of restless legs and sharp mind, he would often be found at Kingsbury Pond, fishing and swimming in summer light and skating until dusk when the pond would freeze over. He also earned his place on the football field, hockey rink and the baseball diamond. Both strength and gentleness lived easily within him.
An alter boy at Saint Edward's Catholic Church, he continued to Mount Saint Charles Academy in Rhode Island, where he led his classmates by example, captaining all three sports and excelling in his studies. He carried that discipline to the University of Notre Dame as an Economics and History major, and continued with sports on an intramural basis, simply for the fun and camaraderie.
During his senior year, a unique opportunity presented itself that would send him far from home after graduation. He boarded a plane for the very first time to teach in Colombia, South America - a decision that redrew the map of his life. While there he met Norita, his future wife of 63 years. Together, they built a marriage rooted in loyalty, warmth and adventure, first in Colombia, then in the coastal town of Hingham, MA where they raised four children, and finally in California, to once again be with their children and grandchildren.
Influenced by his travels in South America, David built a business importing clothing and gifts, later opening shops in Quincy, Boston and Provincetown, MA. He worked with a handshake, and earned trust with his eyes; he treated suppliers as partners, customers as friends.
David is survived by his beloved wife, Norita; their children Michael (Allison), Marilu (Jim Fitzmaurice), Mark, and Michelle (Wellesley Wild); and the grandchildren who adored their "Pop"- Caroline, Isabel, Benjamin, Pablo, Lina, Maria Jose, Sebastian and Gray. He is also survived by his sisters Loretta and Robin, many nieces and nephews, and was predeceased by his brother Richard.
David loved his family fiercely. He was endlessly curious, compassionate, generous and loyal. He valued substance over flash. He rooted for the quiet striver, the overlooked underdog. His presence steadied those around him, even as his life drew to a close.
The family is profoundly grateful to Hospice by the Bay and our father's other caretakers. Their professionalism, tenderness and devotion touched us to the core, just as he touched them.
David remains with us in the values he lived, the grace he carried and the lives he shaped. He will be loved and remembered, always.
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