Remembering David A. Stewart: A Life Richly Lived, A Legacy Enduring

The world, it seems, has just become a little less vibrant, a touch quieter, with the passing of David A. Stewart. On February 24, 2024, at the comfortable age of 87, David left us from his Santa Cruz home, leaving behind a tapestry of memories, wisdom, and an indelible spirit. And honestly, for those who knew him, it feels like the end of an era, a really good one.

Born way back in Los Angeles, October 26, 1936, David was the son of Arthur D. and Athalie (Sjoberg) Stewart. He navigated his early years with an earnestness that would define his entire life, graduating from Verdugo Hills High School in '54 and then Occidental College in '58 with a Political Science degree. Education, you could say, was never just a means to an end for David; it was a genuine pursuit, a hunger for understanding the world around him.

Life, as it often does, brought its own turns. After a brief but impactful stint at Hastings College of the Law, David served his country in the US Army from 1959 to 1961, stationed in Germany. This experience, undoubtedly, shaped his perspective, grounding him further. Upon his return, he embarked on a distinguished corporate career, climbing the ranks at Pacific Indemnity Co., which later became Chubb, eventually serving as a Vice President and Regional Manager. It was a successful path, a testament to his intelligence and unwavering loyalty, yet, in 1989, he made a pivotal choice.

He stepped away. Not from work, mind you, but from the corporate hustle, to forge a new path. He founded Stewart Mediation in 1990, specializing in alternative dispute resolution. This was, in truth, David's true calling – a space where his sharp intellect, his strong moral compass, and his innate kindness could truly shine, helping others navigate complex situations with grace and fairness. It wasn't just a job; it was a contribution.

But to define David by his career alone would be a disservice, a serious oversight. He was, above all, a man of profound passions. Sports, for one, coursed through his veins. He played football in college, coached tennis at UCLA extension, and, well, he loved to watch just about anything competitive. Then there was the great outdoors. The High Sierras weren't just mountains to David; they were, you might say, his personal cathedral. Backpacking, skiing, fly fishing, hiking, cycling—he immersed himself, exploring Yellowstone and the Tetons, finding peace and exhilaration in equal measure.

And the music! A true connoisseur, he had a special affection for jazz, particularly the genius of Dave Brubeck, alongside a deep appreciation for classical compositions. He even played the trumpet and piano himself. Reading, too, was a constant companion; history, biography, current events—his mind was always active, always learning. He and his beloved wife, Ginny, who sadly passed in 2012, shared a love for travel, especially their cherished trips to New York City, absorbing the culture and the vibrant energy of the metropolis. David was also a proud member of the Santa Cruz Elks Club, embracing community with open arms.

His character, honestly, was a rare blend: intelligent, kind, and incredibly loyal, always guided by a strong sense of right and wrong, but with that wonderful, dry wit that could always lighten a moment. He cherished his family above all else. His sons from his first marriage, Geoffrey (married to Ann) and Andrew (married to Stephanie), were a source of immense pride and joy. And his grandchildren—Nicholas, Christopher, Peter, and Lucy—were the bright stars in his later years. He found immense happiness in their company, in watching them grow, just as his brother Robert (married to Barbara) and nephew Michael (married to Lauren) brought him connection and warmth.

David A. Stewart lived a full, rich life, leaving a legacy not just of accomplishments, but of profound humanity. While a celebration of his life will be held later, his memory lives on in the hearts of those he touched. And if you're looking for a way to honor him, perhaps a donation to a charity close to your heart would be a fitting tribute to a truly good man.