James Paul Stewart, 73, passed away on February 22, 2015 in Rapid City after a short illness.

James was born on December 18, 1941 in Bridgewater, SD to Albert and Edna (Weiland) Stewart. The family moved to Lead, SD where he grew up and graduated from High School.

In 1960, Jim joined the Navy and was honorably discharged in 1964. Jim married Janice Pfeiffer-Hart on November 5, 1965 and to this union one child, a daughter Mary was born.

He was employed at Homestake Mining Company for 30+ years, retiring in the late 90's. Jim enjoyed hunting, fishing, working around the house and being a backyard mechanic. He loved nothing more than helping out the people that he cared about. He was always ready to lend a hand.

Jim was a proud life time member of the VFW, Post 5969 Deadwood. He held the office of Judge Advocate and was also on their rifle honor guard.

Jim is survived by his daughter, Mary (David) Schumacher; his brother, Bill (Peggy) Stewart; two grandsons, Jason (Sarah) Schumacher & Michael Schumacher; great-granddaughter, Joslyn; several nieces and nephews and two very special people, Terry Hart and Joe (Julie) Seminole who thought of him as a dad.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, Albert; his mother, Edna; and his younger brother, Richard "Dick" Stewart.

Visitation for Jim will be 5-7 PM, Wednesday, February 25, 2015 at the Lead-Deadwood Memorial Chapel in Lead. Funeral Services will be at 10 AM, Thursday, February 26 at Lead-Deadwood Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at Black Hills National Cemetery. A luncheon will take place at 2 PM at the VFW in Deadwood.

Arrangements are under the care of Lead-Deadwood Memorial Chapel of Lead.