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Gordon Launcelott uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, November 26, 2024
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I remember asking Ron if he thought my son had a chance of being accepted into medicine. He asked to meet him and soon thereafter he became his mentor and my son a “Testostertone”. After three attempts to get in he was finally accepted and is today a vascular surgeon in Vancouver. Ron also officiated at his wedding a few years after graduation. To Sebastian he was always Dr Stewart.
On a personal level Ron helped me start the Acute Pain Service at the VG Hospital in the late 80s which continues today at both the VG and NHI sites of the QE2 HSC.
Like many others, we consider Ron family. He was indeed an extraordinary individual and it has been an honour for us as a family to know him and interact with him on a personal level. Godspeed Ron!
Gordon Launcelott
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Shelagh Savage posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 26, 2024
Nova Scotia – and Canada – have lost an insightful and compassionate health policymaker (and doer!).
Medical communities across North America have lost a tireless advocate, an inspiring mentor and true renaissance leader.
Friends around the globe are devastated to lose a kind, generous, keenly-intelligent and humorous friend, who with love & a gentle smile, created strong connections and encouraged so many to see the world – and the role we can play – in a new light.
And our family has lost an honorary member who through consummate kindness, a loving heart and tireless commitment to social change inspires us to be much better people than we ever thought possible.
RIP Ron, you will be sorely missed and gratefully celebrated!
Shelagh Savage
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Jayani Abeysekera uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, November 23, 2024
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Thank you doesn’t seem like nearly enough to give gratitude for what Dr Stewart did for me (and so many trainees, and really for all Nova Scotians). I am the physician and person that I am today because of Ron’s generosity, mentorship, support, guidance, and unwavering belief in me. He had this quiet way of making you feel so special and capable of achieving things you had never imagined were doable.
Ron played an instrumental (no pun intended) role in my medical training. The Dal Music in Medicine program completely shaped my medical school experience and influenced the trajectory of my career. Ron gave me so many unique opportunities and experiences to learn from (including some very memorable shenanigans!). He graciously opened doors and placed you in spaces that he had access to because of his incredible position and numerous accomplishments, which would have otherwise been impossible to stand in. Ron’s brilliance, vision, generosity and humanity knew no limits. What struck me is that despite being the most accomplished person I will ever have the privilege of knowing, what everyone spoke about was Ron’s kind generous heart and soul, which I and countless others have personally benefited from.
To others, Ron was a world renowned legend and the grandfather of paramedicine, but to me, he was also the guy who somehow found the time to come to my music performances and competitions and would get the biggest infectious ear to ear grin when I would sing my arias, which made me feel so special.
I am so grateful and humbled to have learned from Ron. I am so thankful that he somehow knew to message me on the first day of med school orientation to say “if you have time this week, let’s sit down and chat over a cup of tea, I’d like to tell you about our choir and music in medicine program”. That conversation changed my life.
Thank you so much Dr Stewart, I hope that the most uplifting and amazing music is being played where you are and that you are being taken care of in the way that you so tirelessly took care of so many of us. You are so missed, rest easy.
Jayani
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Jayani Abeysekera posted a condolence
Saturday, November 23, 2024
Thank you doesn’t seem like nearly enough to give gratitude for what Dr Stewart did for me (and so many trainees, and really for all Nova Scotians). I am the physician and person that I am today because of Ron’s generosity, mentorship, support, guidance, and unwavering belief in me. He had this quiet way of making you feel so special and capable of achieving things you had never imagined were doable.
Ron played an instrumental (no pun intended) role in my medical training. The Dal Music in Medicine program completely shaped my medical school experience and influenced the trajectory of my career. Ron gave me so many unique opportunities and experiences to learn from (including some very memorable shenanigans!). He graciously opened doors and placed you in spaces that he had access to because of his incredible position and numerous accomplishments, which would have otherwise been impossible to stand in.
Thank you to everyone who organized and spoke so poignantly at the service, it was so fitting and captured the essence of Ron’s generosity and humanity, which knew no limits. What struck me is that despite being the most accomplished person I will ever have the privilege of knowing, what everyone spoke about was Ron’s kind heart and soul, which I and countless others have personally benefited from.
To others, Ron was a world renowned legend and the grandfather of paramedicine, but to me, he was also the guy who somehow found the time to come to my music performances and competitions and would get the biggest infectious ear to ear grin when I would sing my arias, which made me feel so special.
I am so grateful and humbled to have learned from Ron. I am so thankful that he somehow knew to message me on the first day of med school orientation to say “if you have time this week, let’s sit down and chat over a cup of tea, I’d like to tell you about our choir and music in medicine program”. That conversation changed my life.
Thank you so much Dr Stewart, I hope that the most uplifting and amazing music is being played where you are and that you are being taken care of in the way that you so tirelessly took care of so many of us. You are so missed, rest easy.
Jayani
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Jayani Abeysekera uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, November 23, 2024
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Thank you doesn’t seem like nearly enough to give gratitude for what Dr Stewart did for me (and so many trainees, and really for all Nova Scotians). I am the physician and person that I am today because of Ron’s generosity, mentorship, support, guidance, and unwavering belief in me. He had this quiet way of making you feel so special and capable of achieving things you never imagined were doable.
Ron played an instrumental (no pun intended) role in my medical training. The Dal Music in Medicine program completely shaped my medical school experience and influenced the trajectory of my career. Ron gave me so many unique opportunities and experiences to learn from (including some very memorable shenanigans!). He graciously opened doors and placed you in spaces that he had access to because of his incredible position and numerous accomplishments, which would have otherwise been impossible to stand in.
Thank you to everyone who organized and spoke so poignantly at the service, it was so fitting and captured the essence of Ron’s generosity and humanity, which knew no limits. What struck me is that despite being the most accomplished person I will ever have the privilege of knowing, what everyone spoke about was Ron’s kind heart and soul, which I and countless others have personally benefited from.
To others, Ron was a world renowned legend and the grandfather of paramedicine, but to me, he was also the guy who somehow found the time to come to my music performances and competitions and would get the biggest infectious ear to ear grin when I would sing my arias, which made me feel so special.
I am so grateful and humbled to have learned from Ron. I am so thankful that he somehow knew to message me on the first day of med school orientation to say “if you have time this week, let’s sit down and chat over a cup of tea, I’d like to tell you about our choir and music in medicine program”. That conversation changed my life.
Thank you so much Dr Stewart, I hope that the most uplifting and amazing music is being played where you are and that you are being taken care of in the way that you so tirelessly took care of so many of us. You are so missed, rest easy.
Jayani
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David Anderson posted a condolence
Saturday, November 23, 2024
Dr. Ron Stewart was more than a visionary in emergency medicine—he was a guiding light to all who knew him. His warmth, humility, and unwavering belief in the potential of others left an unforgettable mark on those he taught, worked alongside, and mentored. At Dalhousie University, he championed a deeply human approach to medicine, weaving compassion and the humanities into the heart of healthcare education. We were fortunate have Ron as a colleague, teacher, and friend. Ron was a gifted innovator. He was also a kind, generous person who made us all better, both professionally and personally. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the values he instilled in each of us.
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Sarah MacFarlane Gaultois posted a condolence
Thursday, November 21, 2024
Dear Dr Stewart, who among all his well earned and noble titles I will always think of as Tenor Ron - I was one of the many young people he took out to Smitty's for lunch 25 years ago whose life course he changed for the better. I have so many fond memories of him in the Medical School Chorale, his tireless work for the students and his love of the music. I have on my shelf a framed letter he sent me inviting me and my newlywed husband to spend a weekend getaway in his home in Boularderie the summer of 2000 when we got married. So kind, so giving, so quietly selfless. I last saw Ron at the Medical school convocation last May and he threw his arms around me and asked about all my news and was so full of pride at all the young doctors moving out into the world. Ron was the best, most decent and caring person I ever knew or am likely to know again. May his memory be a call to action for us all to keep giving and sharing and actively caring for others in this world. Thank you with all my heart.
J
Jennifer Dingle uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, November 21, 2024
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My image of Ron’s journey, 20th November 2024. (Based on a photograph of Halifax Harbour.) Sail onwards.
Jennifer Dingle, a friend since our days on Smoke-free Nova Scotia
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Paula Poirier posted a condolence
Monday, November 18, 2024
My dearest friend Ron, we have known each other for 30 years.
You were an amazing man, who I have admired my entire career and had the privilege of working with you and our teams, building and operating the EHS system.
Numerous meetings, luncheons, chats in my office, I will always be indebted to you.
Such an awesome mentor, teacher, innovator and dear friend. Having the opportunity to spend time with Ron in the hospital these last few months, Ron continued to always stay positive for everyone. He was so happy; he finished and published his book. We are all so proud of him.
A true testament of his awesome legacy.
Ron was a wonderful person, thoughtful, humble, supportive, caring and an amazing advocate for the paramedics and entire EHS system. Ron always referred to and loved his massive family, Emergency Medicine and the EHS system.
The EHS system would not exist without Ron’s leadership and vision.
The entire health system and Nova Scotians will always be endeared to Dr. Ron Stewart.
Thank you, Ron, for all you have done for everyone. Ron will be deeply missed by all.
Friends forever,
Paula Poirier
(Retired, President & COO EHS Operations & 811 Telehealth)
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John Ross posted a condolence
Monday, November 18, 2024
I first 'met' (encountered) Ron Stewart as an EM resident at Queen's University. Ron was presenting at Grand Rounds while moving from U of T to Dal and the VG Hospital ED. I don't recall the details, but I do remember he presented a series of funny, bizarre, surely-not-possible medical (mis)adventures, culled from his career to date in Nova Scotia as a GP, then LA, then Pittsburgh, and Toronto. WOW! Who is this guy?! Our next encounter was a year and a half later, during my first days in the VG ED. There was Ron, wearing scrubs, set-up in the trauma room, with the first 'lap top' computer I'd ever seen (red screen, slowly blinking cursor, 20 pounds.) While we chartered on paper, Ron wrote his on the computer. Already a visionary. He took this newbie under his wing and helped me transition from the protected residency world to being an 'ER doc' in a busy large port city academic ED.
As previously described by many others in this book, Ron was a visionary, a leader, inspirational, TIRELESS, and compassionate. He was quickly frustrated by the shortcomings in 'the system' and unlike 99.9% of people who complain but then move on, Ron decided to set his sights on a senior political solution. AND HE DID IT!! Minister of Health + a progressive agenda-focused premier + MIke Murphy, Ed Cain, Ann Petley-Jones, and Marilyn Pike created the country-leading EHS. I had the honour of working with them during the early days of the first iteration of the adult LifeFlight team as medical director. And then Ron moved on - mission accomplished.
Ron and I connected many times over the years. He continued as an inspiration and supporter. He was a contradiction - constantly drumming up incredibly creative ways to make money that he would donate to paramedics, Emergency Medicine, and the Humanities, while living a humble, spartan life in a small apartment above Smitty's (where he conducted many meetings), or a large house accompanied by students (with numerous Ron-ism renovations and 'unique' modifications that were a cross of amateur carpenter and mad scientist.)
Dr. Ron Stewart was a renaissance man, a treasure, a ADHD puppy, a joy, a maven, a connector, and a friend, who influenced MANY while remaining forever modest and humble.
Thank you Ron. I already miss your smile, there even during your last days. Your legacy and memory lives on.
S
Sharon Davis-Murdoch and Dr. John Murdoch purchased flowers
Monday, November 18, 2024
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Nadine Woon posted a condolence
Monday, November 18, 2024
The first time I met him, he was running about, ensuring that everything was perfect for a Dalhousie Choir performance at a local charity event. I remember asking a colleague “who is that?” He always had a presence. That was about 25 years ago.
Over the years, Ron referred to me as his neighbor, although we never actually lived in our respective hometown neighboring communities at the same time. He never missed a chance to sweetly refer to my hometown of Florence has a suburb of Sydney Mines. I always laughed and corrected him while enjoying the teasing! He had a wonderful way of connecting with people on such a personal level.
What always struck me about Ron was the way he cared for people and our communities overall. I think he lived his entire life in service. It was always about what he thought was best for people and what could be done to make things better. He was humble and likely the least materialistic person I knew. He moved on from things in a way that I admired and seemed to know what was important in life. I am so very sorry to his family and his close friends. He certainly left his mark, and he will be missed always.
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Sharon Davis-Murdoch posted a condolence
Monday, November 18, 2024
Ron was a visionary and a change maker for Nova Scotia, Canada and the world.
As his policy advisor and friend, I knew him well. We shared thoughts and hefty dreams and he inspired me. When I see an EHS vehicle on land or in the air, I thank Ron. When we breathe clean air in restaurants and public places I thank him. When our politics lack imagination and passion for progressive change, I think of him.
He was a gift to us. May his legacy live on and inspire us always. Sharon D-M.
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David Thomson posted a condolence
Friday, November 15, 2024
Ron was such a great person! Kind and gentle, but forceful in carrying out his vision. He will be missed!
Dave Thomson
Colorado
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Shannyn Parfitt posted a condolence
Friday, November 15, 2024
To say that Ron was an inspiration is an understatement. I don’t believe that there are enough words in the English language to describe how wonderful and kind he was. Even when he was a ball of energy excited to talk about his next project he always made time to greet me, the little girl that grew up coming to work with her mother over the summers.
I still remember all those years ago when he popped by my mother’s cubicle to talk about his lighthouse project. I was close to finishing high school at the time and he had asked if I had put any thought into where I wanted to go. I had told him no and he jumped at the chance to tell me about his “little” Acadia. His eyes always lit up in excitement talking about the university to the point that I decided to tour it. I’m proud to say his stories were the reason I became an Acadia student. And boy did he get excited when he found out I applied, and got accepted to his Alma Mater.
Ron and I emailed somewhat frequently up until his diagnoses, but my mother always kept up to date. Rest in Peace, my dearest honorary uncle. You’ll be loved and missed dearly.
K
Kathleen White lit a candle
Friday, November 15, 2024
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"Come to the edge," he said.
"We can't, we're afraid!" they responded.
"Come to the edge," he said.
"We can't, we will fall!" they responded.
"Come to the edge," he said.
And so they came. And he pushed them. And they flew."
- Guillaume Apollinaire
Thank you Ron for pushing me. Thank you for giving more than your best every day of you life and even now. You will always be remembered as my dearest friend. There has not been a day go by that I haven't thought about you. You have touched so many lives, I can only be greatful that you touched mine as well. Until we see each other again. With much love Kathleen
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shawn gertzen posted a condolence
Friday, November 15, 2024
though i never knew him i started my ems career because of the show emergency which i know he helped with so thank you Ron!!
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Marianne Stanford posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 5, 2024
I feel blessed for having called Ron a friend.
We met while I was studying for my PhD at Dalhousie in the Faculty of Medicine and was a part of the Health Professions Chorale. We shared a love of music and I was constantly amazed by his generosity of spirit. I remember staying at his cottage on a trip to Cape Breton (at his insistence) and just so many of his small but significant kindnesses. He always had a smile and he will be so greatly missed.
Marianne Stanford, PhD
Upper Tantallon NS
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Art Duboyce posted a condolence
Friday, November 1, 2024
My memories of Ron Stewart go back to the early 1960's and our time at Acadia. He was a warm and caring man who seemed to have the ability to engage individuals where ever they were. On a practical note he gave me employment in the language lab at a time when I needed a financial boost. One summer he went to Algeria and on the way home he visited me and my family in Knowlton, Quebec. My greatest memory of Ron, however, is when Tommy Douglas visited the campus in Wolfville and he and I and Jane Cayford appeared in a photo in the Halifax paper. I personally never achieved greatness but that day I had greatness all around me.
Riding in the car this week, I heard a CBC interview from Cape Breton done with Ron in 2009. As his voice filled my car I had to pull over for a a few minutes. I don't think I've ever known an individual who truly cared more about others than himself.
Thank you for all you have done and the countless lives you've touched Ron.
Art Duboyce
Stratford, Ontario
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John Noble posted a condolence
Friday, November 1, 2024
Ron Stewart was a classmate of mine at Acadia in the Class of 1965. That year he graduated with a B.SC. in Biology (Pre-Med), having graduated in 1963 with a B.A. majoring in French. A serious scholar, he blended his academic work with the right amount of extracurricular activity. During his five years at Acadia, Ron participated in the activities of countless campus organizations including the Celtic Club and the Cape Breton Club of which he was President. He served as Student Union President during his final year and was the only member of the Class of ’65 awarded a Gold A in the Honour Society. Ron was an accomplished bagpipe player and demonstrated his skills at many events. He was a monitor in the French Lab and caught the woman who later become my wife talking with someone else rather than following the lab tape! His proficiency in French earned him a scholarship to travel to Morocco and Algeria one summer, while still at Acadia. Ron developed innumerable friendships at Acadia which have lasted over the years. I was present when he received his well-deserved Honorary Doctorate from Acadia in 1988, and he gave a rousing speech to the assembled graduates. We exchanged emails including during the time he was in NS politics. He was not present at the Acadia Reunion for Classes of the 60’s last June in Wolfville and I was saddened to learn that he was seriously ill. Ron’s many achievements after Acadia are well identified in his obituary. I regret that I will not be able to be present on Nov 20 to share in the celebration of the life of this remarkable Canadian from Cape Breton. To his sister and friends and colleagues I offer my most since condolences.
John Noble
Ottawa
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Connie Mac Dermid Rogers posted a condolence
Friday, November 1, 2024
Dear Donelda and Family ; so sorry for your loss , his keen bright mind will be missed by so many .First memories of Ronnie are from Camp Mac leod, your Mom was the cook, he was always dropping off supplies .As they say the rest is History ,Always thinking outside the box , and making life better for the collective good of all. Wayne and I considered him a trusted friend,
A
Audrey Shafer posted a condolence
Thursday, October 31, 2024
Ron Stewart was a remarkable person - generous, caring, brilliant and innovative. I met him through the Hung family and via our mutual interest and work in medical humanities. He held an international conference at Dalhousie and I was able to bring several medical students and housestaff as Stanford delegates to speak at this ahead-of-its-time conference. Ron was a delight. He made everyone feel welcome in a way that felt like a giant life-giving hug.
While Ron was in hospice, I came across the swag bag from the conference so many years ago. It was as if fate had guided me to the back of the closet and I relished the memories of those long ago times.
Ron envisioned a retreat site at his rural property in Cape Breton for medical humanities and other medical education endeavors. He invited my husband and I to use his house while we were on a road trip in his typical giving style.
Ron was an incredible ally for all who were curious to learn. He taught by example - generosity of heart is the most enduring gift one can give. I am so grateful to have known Ron Stewart - he illuminated my life and I am a better person for having had the good fortune to know him.
Audrey Shafer
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Marie Reid Hatt posted a condolence
Thursday, October 31, 2024
Q: What will you never forget about Ronald?
A: Dr. Ron was a very special person, Humble ,kind, and always willing to lend a helping hand wherever he could. I remember with fondness his kindness from days gone by. A wonderful Doctor, scholar and friend to so many.
R
Royden Trainor uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, October 30, 2024
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Reflecting on Ron Stewart, it’s hard to think of interactions with him as mere memories. To those fortunate enough to know him, these experiences remain vibrant, not just for their brilliance or profundity—which he did possess—but due to his deep humility, humanity, and authenticity.
I first met Ron as a 25-year-old executive assistant to Dr. Savage in 1992. After a visit to a nursing home in North Sydney, as we prepared to leave, Ron noticed I hadn't eaten. He promptly left the car, returned with a hearty doggy bag, and jokingly remarked about needing "Cape Breton tea" to complete it. We both laughed, sealing a friendship that would last decades.
Years later, when the nursing home administrator faced her battle with Lou Gehrig’s disease, Ron arrived with a choir to bring joy to her home, a testament to his boundless compassion—a quality evident in countless similar stories.
Ron believed medicine was about nurturing the spirit as well as healing the body, often saying, “high tech must not replace high touch.” Despite his monumental achievements, it was his everyday human moments that stood out. Mentioning him to my family doctor brought an emotional pause, as she credited him with inspiring her medical career—an influence echoed by many others.
Imagining a Nova Scotia without Ron Stewart is a worthy thought experiment. His initiatives transformed ambulance services, revitalized a collapsing pharmacare program, and championed nurse practitioner roles long before they gained recognition. His bold anti-smoking legislation undoubtedly saved countless lives and exemplifies his courage to prioritize societal good over political popularity.
In Ron’s final days, I asked if he remembered quoting Psalm 30.5 in his first legislative speech. He did, explaining its connection to justice and reform, embodying the resilience required to enact change. “Anger endureth but for a moment, weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.” Ron saw this not just as a passage of comfort, but as a call to action—a reminder that the struggle for justice, reform, and liberation is intrinsic to progress. He believed it signified the transient nature of struggle and the enduring promise of joy and fulfillment after hardship. Ron used this scripture to remind himself and others that while opposition and sacrifice accompany meaningful change, they pave the way for eventual triumph. This passage embodied his unwavering faith in humanity's potential and his deep-seated commitment to fostering positive change.
Ron, your legacy lives on in the lives you’ve touched. Thank you for your joy, passion, goodness, and courage. You changed my life and the lives of so many others. Thank you Ron,
R
Royden uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, October 29, 2024
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Judy (Sams) Bonnell posted a condolence
Monday, October 28, 2024
Ron was one of those people who had a gift of making everyone around him feel special. I was an awkward sixteen year old when I first met him. He was a student minister at the Presbyterian church in Neil’s Harbour, where I lived. Ron had a Young People’s group, and I remember him playing the bagpipes in the field in Cape North. We also had an adventure on SugarLoaf mountain when his father’s truck broke down in the dark.
Any time I saw Ron through the years, he was always the same caring man. I feel blessed to have known him.
R
Ruby Ramsland posted a condolence
Monday, October 28, 2024
A truly humble friend. I knew Ron first while in cape Breton working for the Presbyterian church. We worked at camp Mira together where his mother was the cook. A lot of fun and good times ensued. We continued to keep in touch as I followed his amazing career. I feel privileged to have known him and thank God for his amazing life. Rest in peace Ron. You certainly deserve it.
R
Rosemary Merrell posted a condolence
Monday, October 28, 2024
Ron, There are not enough ways for the Paramedics, and, the City of Pittsburgh to thank you for all you have given to us.
You were missed when you left us. No one could replace you.
We respected and loved you. Now, go rest my friend. You deserve it.
Dear Lord, please hold this man close to your heart. He was one of your shining stars.
Peace Ron Stewart..
Rosie, Medic Command
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Stanley Kutcher posted a condolence
Monday, October 28, 2024
Ron was an indefatigable bundle of energy looking for an outlet. He saw the need to do things, and he did them. He saw the importance of hard work, and gave his all. He understood compassion, and provided it. He realized the importance of giving back to his community, and he did. He recognized the components of a life well lived, and he demonstrated how.
It was a privilege to have been part of his life. Mine has been so enriched by that experience.
Goodbye to Ron, but not to his spirit.
Hon. Dr. Stan Kutcher
Senator
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Jan Jensen posted a condolence
Sunday, October 27, 2024
Thank you for the opportunity to share a couple of words, and to Ron for your service, leadership and most importantly, your genuine kindness to so many. Ron is thought of so warmly by so many in Nova Scotia and in other places. Thank you Ron, your smile and kind words will be missed, and will not be forgotten.
B
Blair Kasouf lit a candle
Sunday, October 27, 2024
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Doctor Ron carried the traditions of the legendary Cape Breton coal mine rescue "Dreagermen" to the world.His vast accomplishments were mostly done without fanfare. Ron's postive effect on countless thousands or probably millions of lives is beyond measure. Rest in Peace....
D
Dr. Dan Reid posted a condolence
Saturday, October 26, 2024
Donalda & Extended " Family & Friends";
My heartfelt condolences especially to his " big worldwide family".
Ron was a classmate of mine in the great Dal Med Class of 1970. His leadership qualities were readily apparent then & would be demonstrated throughout his long , productive & giving life.
Not only were we medical friends ; but political ones as well during his term as Minister of Health in Nova Scotia , led by the progressive Premier Savage at the time. Ron was given the unique opportunity to introduce to Nova Scotia not only EMS but such advances as Home Care , tobacco regulation reforms , Research Foundation grants & Telemedicine - to name a few.As his Advisor on Physician Affairs it was gratifying to assist in seeing many of these advances - also including Alternate Funding to many Physician groups - improve health care for many Nova Scotians.
Not only Nova Scotians , but the wider world owe a debt of gratitude to this humble Cape Bretoner. He most certainly left his mark and this world in a better place than when he first learned to play the bagpipes as a boy in Sydney Mines.
May his Memory be a Blessing to us all.
V
Vanessa Balderston Moore posted a condolence
Saturday, October 26, 2024
Dr. Stewart was an amazing friend and mentor to me during a time in my life when I desperately needed that friendship. May his memory always be a blessing…. for us all.
D
David Sheppard posted a condolence
Saturday, October 26, 2024
When Ron was at Acadia he was my Sunday School teacher. As an inquisitive 15-year-old, I talked to him about Life and being adventurous. He became my mentor, and persuaded me to take a pulp boat that he helped me arrange with Roy Jodrey, and travel to Ireland, from where I hitchhiked solo for several months, ending up in Sweden. We lost contact, but I have always been grateful for his counsel. I ran into him again just before he was given his honorary degree from Dal and was pleased he invited me to the reception.
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Lynda Singer posted a condolence
Saturday, October 26, 2024
Donalda, I have always remembered Ronnie being so kind to two little girls who had just arrived from England. Meryl and I often spoke of it. Please accept my sincerest sympathies on your loss. The world could do with many more like Ronnie . Lynda Singer
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Colleen MacDonald posted a condolence
Saturday, October 26, 2024
Dear Donalda:
My deepest condolences on the loss of your dear Ron. I spent so many hours working with Ron during his time as the Minister of Health in the John Savage Government. His ideas and accomplishments in Emergency Health Services were shared over many a cup of tea in his office on Granville. Later, in my office of Protocol, he shared his ideas and hopes of bringing his beloved Chorale wherever he could find an open door to welcome them. A remarkable and humble friend, who will never be forgotten. May he be remembered for his kind and gentle ways. Rest easy my dear friend. Colleen
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Ronald D. Stuart posted a condolence
Friday, October 25, 2024
I am e family physician i(retired) in Wolfville and share the same 1st name and initial but spell Stuart instead of Stewart.As G.Ps we had to often exchange lab results from Halifax and came to know each other.Even after he wasn’t a family physician he would have to return. lab results to me with apologies.Ron started out as a greatGP but became much more!
D
Dr J Robert Jackson posted a condolence
Friday, October 25, 2024
When I was a Resident in Diagnostic Radiology at the VGH in ~1970, we had weekly quizzes based on X-rays kept in the teaching files. It was quite competitive, but there was one person who always came out on top (or close to it). That guy was Ron Stewart, then a medical student who worked in "the Stacks" or the teaching files as a summer job.
We learned that Ron was a really smart guy. He was also modest, helpful and very friendly.
We thought he would do well in Medicine, but who knew ?
We in Nova Scotia are all the richer for having known him and having had Ron working for us
C
Corey Banks posted a condolence
Friday, October 25, 2024
I am honored to have known Dr Stewart; he was the epitome of servant leadership. His stalwart vision and devotion have not only helped countless patients and providers, but also empowered and motivated generations to come. I, along with many, am sad to know that he is gone. As stated by Stephen Covey,
“There are certain things that are fundamental to human fulfillment. The essence of these needs is captured in the phrase; to live, to love, to learn, to leave a legacy.”
I could think of no better words to describe Dr Stewart, no better words to honour him, and no better words from which to take guidance in following his example of an exceptionally fulfilled human.
S
Shirley MacRae posted a condolence
Friday, October 25, 2024
Deepest Sympathy to Ron’s sister Donalda & family. I first got to know Ron many years ago,then later when he moved to Big Bras D’Or and played the organ at St James Church. He was a devoted customer at our Home Hardware Store in North Sydney. Ron was a cherished friend who always had time to reminisce when we met. He will never be forgotten as a physician & friend. Rest In Peace Ron,we’ll meet again.
Love,
Shirley Kaiser- MacRae
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Mary Marple posted a condolence
Thursday, October 24, 2024
Ron was a humble and lovely man. I knew him from his time at St.James Presbyterian church as our organist. We were so honoured to have him as our organist. My girls were only little and he always made such a fuss over them. My deepest sympathies to Donelda and all his extended family, on the loss of an extraordinary man. Ronnie you left a lasting footprint indeed. God bless
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Ethel and Ted Nicholson posted a condolence
Thursday, October 24, 2024
A true humble great friend growing up in Sydney Mines and since then too. We will miss you
A
Afonso Hung posted a condolence
Thursday, October 24, 2024
I heard about Ron since the early 1990s, but it was not until February 2023 that I met him the first time in person. I knew Ron through my brother Orlando, not because of Ron’s credentials, but his love and care to people. I was fortunate to meet him again at his bedside two weeks ago. While Ron is no longer with us in this world, I believe he starts his afterlife in the Kingdom of Heaven. May he rest in peace!
J
Jeanette Hung posted a condolence
Thursday, October 24, 2024
“I’m having the best death of anyone I know.” Ron said this to me many times as I sat at his bedside in the days before his death. We talked about the wonderful staff on Palliative Care how thoughtful, professional and caring they are. We talked about Dr. Erin Gorman Corsten’s bedside manner and how she brought compassion, clarity and understanding with every stop at his bedside. I remember how she was so patient and kind and supportive as I clearly struggled to come to terms with his death. Ron and I talked about Dr. Rachel Blackman and the manner in which she told him that his treatments were no longer working and so they would stop now. “This is the way to do it,” he said, “This is the way to do it. Every student should be taught this way. I wish I’d had a video camera.”
To me Ron was another part of my family. Breezing in and out as time permitted. Joining us for meals or whatever activities he happened upon. He was an important part of our family, inspiring Orlando, being both playful and wise with our children, encouraging our dreams and being full of good humour. What I failed to appreciate until the final days of his life, was how he was an important part of everyone’s family. In our private moments together, I would read notes, emails, and texts that were sent to him. He would smile, and with tears in his eyes say: “Isn’t that wonderful.Isn’t that just wonderful.” He told me he has the largest family in the world; and, whichever part of your family he was, he truly loved you.
Jeanette Hung
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The family of Dr. Ronald Daniel Stewart uploaded a photo
Thursday, October 24, 2024
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