Stewart J. McGregor Jr.

Stewart James McGregor Jr., 78, passed away on May 17, 2023, in Mishawaka, Indiana. He was born in Bessemer, Alabama on February 15, 1945, to the late Stewart J. and Mary Ruth McGregor. Stewart was raised alongside his sister, Elizabeth A. McGregor of Red Feather, Colorado, and his brothers, Roy A. (Shirley) McGregor of Denver, Colorado, and the late Daniel McGregor. Stewart served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War.

On June 5, 1976 Stewart married his “sweetie” and life long partner, Leona M Hostetler. The love of his life.

Stewart worked for Universal Forrest Products and Arrow Steel. He dedicated his spare time to helping and serving people in need. He and his wife Leona, opened their hearts and home, fostering children. He was called Dad, by many. Annually, he and Leona would provide Christmas to the children residing at NISH, a non profit organization serving individuals with disabilities. One of Stewart’s favorite memories was playing Santa every year. In that role, he discovered his passion to be an advocate for children with special needs. His compassion and dedication, led to the guardianship of Pamela Sue Wexler, when she was 9 years old. His devotion to her, quickly led to Pam becoming his daughter. She brought great joy and purpose to his life. His love and compassion for others was admired by all who knew him.

Stewart was a proud father to his daughter, Pamela Sue McGregor of Osceola, Indiana, and stepson, William (Sandy) Dempler Sr. of Mishawaka, Indiana. He cherished his role as a grandfather to William (Leigh) Dempler Jr. of Elkhart, Indiana, and Tabatha (Sam) Garrison of New Carlisle, Indiana. Stewart also took great joy in his eight great-grandchildren and seven great-great-grandchildren.

In his free time, Stewart loved dining at the Pancake House in Roseland Indiana, where Tony always took great care of him. He loved attending Bluegrass festivals, visiting friends and family, and attending church every Sunday, always bringing donuts for the entire congregation.

Stewart is survived by his daughter, Pamela Sue McGregor; stepson, William (Sandy) Dempler Sr.; grandchildren, William (Leigh) Dempler Jr. and Tabatha (Sam) Garrison; sister, Elizabeth A. McGregor; brother, Roy A. (Shirley) McGregor; eight great-grandchildren; and seven great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Stewart J. and Mary Ruth McGregor. His wife Leona M. Hostetler McGregor, and his brother, Daniel McGregor.

A funeral service will be held at 12 pm Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at Palmer Funeral Home – Hickey Chapel, 17131 Cleveland Road, South Bend, Indiana 46635. Friends and family may visit with the family beginning at 11am. A burial with military honors will follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens.

Online condolences may be shared with the Stewart family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

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