Roysten E. "Rusty" Stewart

Roysten "Rusty" Stewart, 88, of Battle Creek died at Bronson at Home Hospice Residence in Battle Creek on Thursday, December 22, 2016.

Rusty was born August 14, 1928 in Clinton, Missouri to Elmer Bartow and Goldie Ellen (Edicott) Stewart. He grew up in the Clinton, Michigan area, graduated from high school and attended Community College later in life. Rusty retired after 35 years of dedicated service at the former Battle Creek Gas Company. He then was the owner / operator of Stewart Heating & Cooling.

On May 14, 1949, Rusty married Thelma J. Bauman in Independence, Missouri. Sadly he was preceded in death by Thelma, his wife of 65+ years on January 6, 2015. Surviving are his daughter, Sally (Harley) Tanner; granddaughter, Stephanie Banwart; great-grandchildren, Shae and Kode Banwart; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews and their families. In addition to his wife, Rusty was also preceded in death by seven sisters and six brothers.

Rusty enjoyed woodworking and fishing. He loved children and fixed all the neighborhood kids' bikes and toys. He loved a good cup of coffee and being a friend to all. He will be remembered as someone who was always willing to give a helping hand to anyone in need.

Friends will be received 11:30-12:30 p.m., the hour prior to services at the Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care. Funeral services will be officiated by Pastor Bryan O. Tema at the funeral home 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, December 27, 2016. Interment will be held at Memorial Park Cemetery.

In memory of Rusty, please "Pay It Forward". Personal messages for the family may be placed here at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.