Julie Stewart

Julie Ann Stewart, 62, passed away on October 25, 2023 in her home, surrounded by those she loved the most. After a courageous battle with ovarian cancer, Julie is in the comfort of our Heavenly Father, where she is no longer in pain. In her final days, she expressed that she knew where she was going and that gave her the peace and contentment she needed to leave this world behind.
Julie was born on November 24, 1960 to Ervin and Lois Stigen in Grand Forks, North Dakota. She attended school in Grand Forks, followed by Stewarts School of Cosmetology in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. She worked most of her adult life as a cosmetologist at various salons in Sioux Falls and Mitchell.
In 1986, Julie welcomed her first child, Michelle, followed by Aaron in 1988. In June 1993, Julie married the love of her life, Rick Stewart, and gained two more children, Christopher and Adam. From there, her family continued to grow as she and Rick welcomed grandchildren – 11 in total, as well as three great-grandchildren.
Julie loved being a mom and a grandma. Time spent with her grandchildren brought the purest form of joy into her life. In her spare time, Julie could be found enjoying the outdoors – kayaking, visiting wineries, porch-sitting, going to the zoo, and relaxing in her pool on a hot day. She loved watching the dance recitals and sporting events of her grandchildren. She also enjoyed reading, visiting with friends, and convincing Rick to jump on board with her crazy ideas and excursions – whether it be getting another family pet, driving hours away to check out a beautiful park or landmark she had read about, and more!
Julie was a loyal and faithful servant to her Lord and Savior. She attended church at New Life in Sioux Falls, where she enjoyed the people, fellowship, and worship, often telling anyone she would meet about her church and encouraging them to join her on Sundays.
Julie's warm spirit, infectious laugh, and bright smile will be remembered by those who knew her well. The memories her husband, children, and grandchildren have with her will be cherished forever.
Grateful for having shared her life are her husband, Rick Stewart, Salem, SD; her daughter, Michelle Kirk (Joe Carda), Larchwood, IA; her sons, Aaron Kirk, Sioux Falls, SD, Christopher Stewart (Jennifer), Harrisburg, SD, and Adam Stewart (Michelle), Marion, SD; her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; her mother, Lois Stigen, Grand Forks, ND; her siblings, Rick Stigen (Vicky), Deb Kroese (Brian), and Bobbi Brabbit (Rick); and many nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her father, Ervin Stigen, and her grandparents.
A visitation with the family present will be held on Thursday, November 2 from 5:00 – 7:00 pm at Kinzley Funeral Home in Salem, SD. A memorial service celebrating her life will be held on Friday, November 3 at 6:00 pm at New Life Church (500 S. 1st Ave.) in Sioux Falls, SD.