September 12th 1955 – May 25th 2026
It is with the greatest sadness, we announce the sudden passing of Donnie on May 25th 2026 at the age of 70. Donnie was a loving and caring husband to Debbie and father to Donalea. He was truly one of a kind, with his quick-wit sense of humour, he always made everyone laugh.
Donnie was born on September 12th 1955 in Port Arthur, Ontario to Leamon “Len” & Elsie Stewart. The youngest of six, he spent his childhood living on Shuniah St and Mackenzie Beach Rd, attending Vance Chapman, Shuniah Street School, and McKenzie Public School. He attended Lakeview High School, then pursued his career in auto mechanics at Sault College. Throughout the years, Donnie had accomplished so much. His first endeavor was building Crystal Beach Service Station with his dad Len and dear friend Vic Milenko. On top of servicing vehicles, Don was awarded the top sales for selling Skiroule snowmobiles in the area. Over the years, Don worked for his father, beach combing the shores of Lake Superior. He transitioned into his career in the car sales industry, owning and operating local businesses such as Midtown Motors & Autoland. In 1999, Don & Deb purchased the McKenzie Inn, restoring the entire building and operating the business until 2006. Subsequently, Don also owned Bay Motors and Fix4Less Auto. In 2008 Don began working in Northern Communities with late friend Rick McLeod. Between all of that, he was also passionate about real estate and home renovating.
Between work, Don always ensured that his family and friends came first. Don & Deb spent many Sundays down Lakeshore Drive with late sister Gail, brother Sam, and sister Sally, as well as many happy gatherings with in-laws Val & Dave, Bridgie & Mike, and families. Don also had many friends throughout the years including Perry Tiboni, Jason Hopkins, Cathy Martin, and Lori & Steve Dukarich. He loved his 8am morning phone calls with Donalea, as well as spending time at the “shop” with Reggie, Eric, Jerry, and all his buddies.
Don is survived by his wife of 52 years Debbie, daughter Donalea and (son) Riley Carchidi, his sister Sally, brothers Sam and Rick (Marlene). Mother-in-law Marlene Burke, in-laws Val Kabernick & Dave Bazaluk, Bridget & Mike Stachejczuk, and many nieces and nephews he loved so dearly. Fur-grandbabies Rio & Chiefy, as well as many dear friends.
He is predeceased by his parents, Len & Elsie Stewart, sisters Gail Westergaard & Sandee Mannella, brother-in-law Gord Kosa, sister-in-law Betty Crago, nephew Tim Crago, niece Susan Crago, and father-in-law Arnold Sjostedt.
We would like to express our deepest thanks and gratitude to the paramedics at Superior North EMS for their quick response. Thank you to Dr. Davenport and the ICU team at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre, your care and compassion were amazing.
There will be a Celebration of Life announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in Don’s memory to the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society Northwest Animal Centre. Online condolences may be made at www.sargentandson.com.
“You may be gone from our sight
But you will be never gone from our hearts”
We love you so much.
