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Obituary of Stewart C. Later
Stewart "Stew" Charles Later Sr., age 95, passed away peacefully at his home on January 29, 2025. Born on May 9, 1929, in South Windsor, CT, to Mildred Chase Later and Charles Foster Later, Stew grew up in Solon, ME, and lived a full and remarkable life.
Stew enlisted in the United States Marine Corps at the young age of 17 and proudly served his country during the Korean Conflict. He dedicated six years to the military, a chapter in his life that shaped the man he became. Stew went on to work at Saucony ("The Shoe Shop") for many years, where he was known for his hard work and resourcefulness. He made a lasting impact on all who worked beside him.
He made his home in Prospect, ME, where he cherished moments with his family, his land, and his many interests. His garden, which produced his famous “Later Taters,” was a source of pride, and he enjoyed spending countless hours on his tractor with his hat on, cocked to the side, cigar in his mouth, a twinkle in his eye and a big smile. You could find him cutting wood, enjoying the pond, or tinkering on projects around his property. His love for life was evident in everything he did. He and Barb went on many adventures, hiking trails, biking trails and camping. He was a quiet, strong man with a soft voice who often reminded those around him, “Life is good.” When asked “How are you?” he always responded with “Top Shelf”. Hearing Stew say that, was a guaranteed smile on the face of whoever was asking.
A true gentleman, and a man of few words, but when he spoke, it was always meaningful. He was known for his work ethic, his ability to fix anything, and his deep appreciation for the simple pleasures of life—fishing, camping, four wheeling, snowmobiling, and sharing meals of brook trout and watching a good Western. A lover of cigars, good scotch, Irish whiskey, and beer, Stew’s lifestyle was as robust as his character. His fingers, though never straight, were capable of accomplishing the impossible. If his grandchildren needed a place to play? “Grampy” would build them a playground, and he did!
Stew’s legacy is one of strength, respect, and enduring love. He was predeceased by his first wife and mother of his sons, Geraldine Later; second wife Jeanne Later; brothers, George and Lorin; sisters, Leona and Gladys; son, Terry Later, and his long-time friend, Gerald “Gerry” Raymond. He is survived by his beloved wife of 32 years, Barbara Later; his sons, Stewart Jr. (Anna) Later of CT, and Douglas Later of Prospect, ME; daughter-in-law, Stephanie Fiske of Winterport, ME, his stepchildren, Brent (Marissa) Britton of FL, and Lisa (Dean) Brown of Winterport, ME; 13 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews. All of them love him dearly, and will carry on his memory.
A celebration of Stew’s life will be held in the spring/summer, with family and friends, the way he would have wanted it.
Stew will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his quiet strength and wisdom will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and friends. Rest in peace, Stew. You will never be forgotten.
Memories and condolences may be shared on his tribute wall.
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