David Warren Stewart, admired husband, father, grandfather, brother, outdoorsman, and friend, passed away on May 18, 2026, in Branson, Missouri, surrounded by the comfort and love of his family.

     David was born on April 8, 1937, in Day, Missouri, to Frank (aka Jack) and Edith (McMichael) Stewart. A lifelong resident of Taney County, David never strayed too far, for too long from the hills, creeks, and community he proudly called home.

     He is preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Edith Stewart and his sister, Judith.

     He attended school in Spokane before continuing his education at Southwest Missouri State University. It did not take long for him to discover that his true calling was not in a classroom, but in operating equipment. 

     David honorably served his country in the United States Army as part of the 82nd Airborne Paratrooper Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Following his military service, he returned home and dedicated himself to the construction industry, eventually building David Stewart Construction, a business that allowed him to build not only roads & septic systems, but relationships and a life centered around providing for the people he loved. 

     On May 22, 1964, at Chesnutridge Baptist Church, David married the love of his life, Su. Together they built a beautiful life spanning nearly 62 years of marriage, raising their daughter Sonja and creating a home filled with unwavering love, loyalty, laughter, and support. To many, they were simply “Dave and Su” a pair whose lives and love became inseparable over the decades. 

     When David wasn’t working, he could be found outdoors — fishing, elk hunting in Colorado, mushroom hunting, at the creek with family and friends, or working in his shop. He spent his winters as an avid Missouri State Lady Bears fan.

     For decades, David and Su traveled out west, where the mountains truly became a second home. Every fall for over 50 years, he and many of his closest friends made the trip to Colorado to elk hunt. Even later in life, he never lost his excitement about heading to the mountains time and time again, making memories his family will treasure forever. 

     Above all else, David loved his family and friends deeply. He was the kind of man who showed love through actions — by providing, fixing, helping, and always showing up when he was needed. His greatest pride was never found in accomplishments or possessions, but in the people around him. He leaves behind a legacy of patience, understanding, generosity, hard work, and unconditional love that will continue to live on through everyone fortunate enough to know him. 

     David will be deeply missed by his beloved wife Su and daughter Sonja; his grandchildren: Timothy David, Allexous, and her Husband Bodee; his Brother: Mike (Cheryl) Stewart and family; lifelong best friend of more than 75 years, Bob Bilyeu; and an endless list of family and friends.

     A celebration of David’s life will be held on May 30, 2026, at Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory, Branson,  with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. and services following at 2:00 p.m. Following the services, family and friends are welcome to join at the creek for food and fellowship. 

     In honor of David’s love for the outdoors and elk hunting, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and Bonniebrook Historical Society.