Larry Stewart

Larry Robert Stewart, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, entered eternal rest on October 31, 2024, at the Ninth Street Chautauqua Guest Home in Charles City, Iowa, surrounded by his family. Born March 9, 1932, in Floyd, Iowa, to Lloyd and Hazel (Raymond) Stewart, Larry's life was shaped by his faith, his devotion to family, and a commitment to community service.
A celebration of Larry's life will be held on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church in Charles City, Iowa with Pastor Russ Leeper officiating. The family will welcome visitors from 9:00 to 10:45 a.m. prior to the service. In honor of Larry's dedication to the community, the family suggests that memorials be directed to the Floyd County Fair Society, P.O. Box 301, Charles City, IA 50616, where Larry's lifelong support continues to benefit future generations.
Larry graduated from Floyd High School in 1949 and pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Teaching and Coaching at Iowa State Teacher's College, followed by a Master's Degree in Counseling from the University of Minnesota. He proudly served his country as an Air Force Flight Instructor during the Korean War. Larry was stationed in Denver, Colorado, where he taught aviation instrumentation. His early career and time in the service instilled a dedication to teaching and guiding others, a hallmark of his life.
On December 31, 1952, Larry married his wife, Donna Mae Field, beginning a 70-year marriage built on love, respect, and faith. Together, they created a warm home and raised six children-Lori, Dana, Gary, Lana, Joni, and Dean. Their family grew to include 14 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren, each of whom carries forward Larry's legacy of kindness, humor, and generosity.
In 1975, Larry and Donna returned to Charles City Iowa where Larry embarked on a long and impactful career in real estate. His commitment to integrity and service led him to work with firms including Edina Realty, Bill Harrold Realty, founder of Larry Stewart Realty and finally Stewart Realty Company. Larry's leadership extended to roles in the National Association and Iowa Association of REALTORS®, Cedar Valley Board of REALTORS® and the Northeast Iowa Regional Board of REALTORS®. Larry contributed significantly to real estate education by helping establish Iowa's first real estate degree program at the University of Northern Iowa. He was a mentor to many in the field, always willing to share his knowledge and guide others.
Larry's commitment to service extended beyond his profession. A member of Saint John Evangelical Lutheran Church, he and Donna found joy in ministering to those unable to attend services, offering communion and companionship. His volunteer spirit was boundless-Larry was actively involved with the Floyd County Fair, Charles City Rotary Club, the Elks Lodge #418, the Just Friends mentorship program, along with numerous other local organizations. His contributions to the community were recognized when he was named Charles City's "Man of the Year," a tribute to his dedication and service.
With a warm smile, a generous heart, and an unwavering sense of humor, Larry touched countless lives. He had a special gift for making others feel valued and welcomed, whether he was sharing stories over coffee at the and the East Side/Laundry-mat Morning Coffee Group, picking up all the dinner and drink tabs, or lending a helping hand to those in need. With his career in real estate, he had the joy of warmly welcoming countless newcomers to the community, making them feel right at home in Charles City and surrounding communities. Larry's generosity extended even in death, as he followed Donna's example by donating his body to the Mayo Clinic Anatomical Bequest Program, furthering medical education and research.
Larry's family was the joy of his life. His children-Lori, Dana (Patti), Gary (Peggy), Lana (Tom Wavra), Joni (Chris Horvath), and Dean (Sara)-along with his 14 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and extended family members, were his greatest blessings. He also leaves behind Donna's sisters Dixie, Dianne, and Debbie, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins who remember him fondly.
Larry was predeceased by his beloved wife Donna, his parents Lloyd and Hazel, his siblings Lee, Raymond, George, Eugene, Harriett, and Joyce, and his great-grandson Drake Foren. His memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, as well as in the countless lives he touched through his kindness, mentorship, and community involvement.