Charles David (Dave) Stewart, 73, passed away peacefully on August 7, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and listening to his beloved Minnesota Twins, who graciously won the game for him. He will be remembered for his love of family, humble gentle spirit, and a simple man who loved sports dearly.

Dave was born on September 3, 1952, in Quincy, Illinois, the son of Charles Wesley Stewart and Hazel Lee (Miller) Stewart. He graduated from Quincy Senior High School in 1970 and went on to attend Drake University, where he played collegiate baseball and graduated in 1974 with a degree in physical education and coaching.

Dave continued his love of the game professionally, playing Triple-A Minor League Baseball in 1974 as a left-handed pitcher for the Seattle Rainiers. His love of baseball and collegiate sports remained an important part of his life throughout the years.

Dave married Teri Kim Hicks on March 25, 1983, in Quincy, Illinois. Their love story began when Teri was his nurse, and Dave knew almost immediately that she was someone very special. They shared 43 wonderful years together, building a beautiful life and family with their three sons: Wesley, Matthew and Eric.

Throughout his working years, Dave wore many hats. While living in Quincy, Illinois, he worked for the railroad and later at Blessing Hospital as a patient transporter. He later worked in quality control at a soybean laboratory. After moving to Texas, Dave worked as a substitute teacher and later as a facilities maintenance technician at a hospital. In every role he brought with him his strong work ethic and dedication. He retired in 2013 after a lifetime of hard work and dedication.

More than anything, Dave loved his family. He took great pride in his sons and grandchildren and treasured following their lives and accomplishments. His lifelong love of sports—especially baseball—was something he enjoyed sharing with those around him. Even across the miles, Dave made a point to stay connected with the people he loved, whether through a phone call, a conversation about sports, or simply checking in to see how everyone was doing. His family will remember his strength, his loyalty, and the love he had for each of them.

Dave was preceded in death by his father, Charles Wesley Stewart, and his son, Wesley David Stewart.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Teri; his sons, Matthew (Kristin) Austew and Eric (Katy) Stewart; his cherished grandchildren, Faye Austew and Bryleigh, Oakleigh, and Boston Stewart; his mother, Hazel Stewart; and his sisters, Joann Zander and Susan (Mike) Gainer. He is also lovingly remembered by his many nieces and nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Dave will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His family finds comfort in knowing that his life was filled with love, family, and the game he cherished, and that his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Visitation will be held on 08/13/2026, from 4pm to 6pm at Wise Funeral Home in Bonham, TX. Funeral services will be held on 08/14/2026, at 2pm at Wise Funeral Home in Bonham, TX, with Pastor Doug Peebles officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Dave’s memory may be made to MD Anderson Cancer Clinic at gifts.mdanderson.org.