Harold I. Stewart Jr., 96, of Crawfordsville passed away peacefully May 19, 2026 at home, in the very place he once dreamed of as a young man. It was the home he built with love alongside his beloved wife, Mary, where they raised their children, welcomed two generations of grandchildren, and filled its rooms with over 70 years of warmth, laughter, and love.
He was born June 26, 1929, to Harold Sr. and Sylvia (Lakin) Stewart in Indianapolis. Harold married Mary James on Sept. 2, 1950, in Crawfordsville, spending 61 loving years together until her passing in 2011.
He was a graduate of Crawfordsville High School, Class of 1948. Harold proudly served his country in the Indiana National Guard. He retired from RR Donnelly’s after 43 years, working as a pressman and warehouse clerk. He also owned several rental properties in the area and enjoyed maintaining the homes. Harold was a member of the American Legion Post 72, Masonic Lodge 50, and the Crawfordsville Moose and Elks Lodges. He was also a former member of the Milligan Presbyterian Church. In his younger years, Harold and Mary went out dancing almost every weekend. He loved spending time with his family, especially the grandchildren.
Harold is survived by his children, Janis Stewart and James Stewart; grandchildren, Collin Knecht and Kennedy (Robby Barton) Knecht Barton; and great-grandchild, George Glenn “GG” Barton. He will also be missed by his nieces, nephews and extended family.
He was predeceased by his parents; wife Mary; and sisters, Mary Janis Cooksey and Martha Lee Boots.
Visitation will be held Thursday, May 28 at Sanders Funeral Care, 315 S. Washington St., Crawfordsville, from noon until the time of the service at 2 p.m. Burial and military honors provided by the National Guard and American Legion Post 72 will follow at Oak Hill North Cemetery, where he will be laid to rest next to Mary.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Animal Welfare League of Montgomery County, 1104 Big Four Arch Road, Crawfordsville, IN 47933.
Share memories and condolences at www.SandersFuneralCare.com.
