Donald Leroy Stewart, best known as “Donny” age 59 of Kouts, Indiana and formerly of Ruth, California was sent to his eternal home as a result of a car accident on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Donny was born November 8, 1965 in Eureka, California and the world was never the same. The dictionary defines the word “character” as “the mental and moral qualities distinctive to an individual”. Donny’s character was one to adhere to through his love, compassion, generosity, and never ending humor. His burning passion for his faith in Christ impacted anyone he encountered. If you had the pleasure of knowing Donny you knew he loved everyone, with open arms, and was immensely cherished in return; even if he smothered his tacos in ketchup. This man of character would create a community everywhere he went and that community became his family.
Donny was an avid sports fan and mainly a huge USC Trojan fan. There was something about California that kept him coming back: whether it was the football team, the mountains, or the pesky woodpeckers, one does not know for sure; however, it certainly was the love for others that kept Donny rooted wherever he settled down. Donny was everyone’s Father, and Grandfather, but most importantly he was the rock in Lauri’s life. On March 2, 2002, he took Lauri’s hand in marriage and began their love story and the building of an amazing family together. Donny’s love for Lauri was admirable as it was fierce and steadfast. Lauri survives along with their loving children, Brittany (Josh) Murphy, Courtney Stewart, Anthony (Brenda) Boeckel, Christopher (Christy) Boeckel, Staciann (Sean) Nelson, Michael (Heather) Luczak, Jonathan (Will) Luczak and Charles (Emily) Horn; 17 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; and all those whose lives he touched.
A Celebration of Life will be held on June 14th 2025 at Cornerstone Community Church in Kouts, Indiana from 3pm to 5pm. A gathering for sharing stories to follow the service around a campfire.
GUESTBOOK
Donny was a true friend ! Even though we lived miles apart! We kept in touch by phone! The last time we talked we shared memories! I will miss our phone calls! -Bruce Pantzer
We love you Donny. We know you are with our Heavenly Father but we sure miss you. Wish we could be there with you, Lauri. Love you, my sweet friend. -Debbie and Jim Tinkelenberg
Our hearts go out to all friends and family. The loss was sad and sudden. Lauri, your marriage was always an inspiration. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. -Craig and Bree Eubanks
Donny was always my mother's favorite sales rep for our bridal shop. From Mary's bridal, DaVinci & more, he was always fun, honest and helpful. Never steered us wrong with what to buy for pur area. He always asked about our family and he always commented about how my son was 2 and could eat Spicy foods. (He loved Wasabi peas!) He will be missed by us! We always looked forward to seeing him! My mom has passed this past year as well. Maybe they can both hang out at the National Bridal Market in the Sky! -Justin Willison, Spring Lake Bridal
