Paul Stewart

1935 - 2025

Paul Stewart

January 15, 1935 - December 13, 2025

Paul DeWayne Stewart, 90, of Moline, Ill, went home to be with the Lord, passing peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family. Throughout his life, he touched countless lives with his unconditional love, wisdom, humor, deep faith, and unwavering perseverance. The Christ like spirit that defined his life became a source of guidance and encouragement to all who knew him.

Paul was born January 15, 1935, in Albia, Iowa, the son of Roy and Vera (Spencer) Stewart. He graduated from Moline High School in 1953 and proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1952 to 1956. Paul and LaVelle Metz first met at John Deere Junior High and began dating at 14 years old, building a love that grew stronger with every passing year. On September 22, 1956, Paul married LaVelle at First Christian Church in Moline, Illinois, beginning a 69 year marriage rooted in devotion, partnership, and faith. Their life together was a beautiful testament to enduring love, and Paul often said he was "lucky in love," a sentiment he lived out every day beside her.

From his earliest days delivering newspapers, Paul displayed the drive and determination that would define his remarkable entrepreneurial life. He owned and operated DynaKleen Services for over 40 years, owned Wellington apartments in Moline, and helped renovate the Reliance building in downtown Moline with his family to become a beautiful wedding venue, The University Club. He was also co owner of Banner Home Furnishings in Clinton, Iowa, alongside his brother Dale.

Paul was a devoted and active member of First Christian Church Moline for 75 years, where he served faithfully as an adult Sunday School teacher for the Friendship Class for over 50 years, an Elder, and an evangelist, joyfully sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. After the church closed, he joined Sacred City Church, Moline. His commitment to service extended into the community as well. He served as 2nd Ward Alderman for the City of Moline for 18 years and was a member of Mended Hearts at Genesis. He enjoyed spending winters with LaVelle in Longboat Key, Florida, fishing, traveling, and spending time with family and friends, always giving thanks to God for the blessings in his life. Paul often said he never expected to reach 60, so when he did, he marked the occasion with a party- complete with a band.

Paul is survived by his beloved wife, LaVelle; his children, Pam (Terry) Jackson, Paul (Susan) Stewart, and Perry (Kristen) Stewart; 11 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren, and one on the way. He was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings, Janice, Carol, and Dale; and an infant son, Patrick David. Though he has left his earthly home, his family takes comfort in knowing he is now in the presence of his Savior.

Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to 12 a.m. on December 19, 2025, at Sacred City Church in Moline, Illinois, and will conclude with a 12 p.m. service celebrating Paul's life and faith. Burial will follow at Rock Island Arsenal National Cemetery with military honors conducted by the Moline American Legion, Post 246. Online condolences may be shared at https://www.raffertyfunerals.com/

Paul will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. His family rejoices in the promise of eternal life and looks forward to the day they will be reunited in Christ. Memorials may be made to Sacred City Church, Moline.