Obituary of Stewart McCuaig
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Stewart McCuaig, who died unexpectedly on Friday, December 5, 2025 after a brief and courageous battle with cancer. He was 63 years old - gone too soon.
Stew will be remembered for his easy smile, hearty laugh and constant kindness to others. He had unwavering devotion to his family, who were his greatest pride and joy. He is survived by his wife and best friend of 31 years, Kelly; his amazing children Jessica, and Sam (Paige); his dear siblings Jeff (Kris), Kevin (Janet), Lisa (Bruce), Todd (Gwen), Brad (Mike, Wendy), and Murray (Judy); his in-laws Karen, Joseph (Christina) and Eliza Kempel; as well as many nieces and nephews and friends who will miss him dearly. Stewart is predeceased by his parents, David and Barbara McCuaig and by his in-laws, Joseph and Betty Kempel.
Stewart worked hard to take care of his family before his recent retirement from ATS Automation as Vice-President, General Counsel. He loved spending cherished time at his favourite place, the cottage at Bruce Beach, where he relaxed, welcomed loved ones and enjoyed his new hobby as a talented woodworker. Stewart was known as the fun dad and uncle who welcomed all family and friends to the cottage where he absolutely enjoyed getting to know his children's friends, hosting dance and euchre parties, and playing beach games. He and Kelly spent countless peaceful hours sitting in their chairs side-by-side on the sand waiting for the magical sunsets or for a familiar face to appear from down the beach.
A proud family man, Stew lived a full and busy life making the most out of every moment. His family are comforted by memories of precious time together. Stewart was always there for every one of Jess and Sam’s sport activities or celebrations, and you could always hear him cheering or his camera clicking. Stewart enjoyed many travel adventures where the whole family always went together, as well as time with Kelly on their new e-bike getaways. Stewart was a master at escape rooms, loved theatre, jumped at every chance to dance a polka, and always had a candy jar nearby. As a proud Scot, Stew researched his family heritage and began playing the bagpipes over 10 years ago. He was especially proud to play at Brad and Mike’s wedding and for his father’s service. He never missed the chance to join in on any fun and had a gift for everything he tried.
Stewart will forever be remembered as the most kind, patient, gentle, loving and selfless husband, father, brother, uncle, family member, and friend. We are all better people for having known him and loved him. No amount of time would ever have been enough with our Stew. He is too loved to be forgotten.
A private celebration of life will be held at Stewart’s request.
Donations to the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated and may be arranged through the Erb and Good Family Funeral Home, Waterloo at www.erbgood.com or by calling 519-745-8445.