MacDIARMID, Stuart J., of St. Thomas, passed away peacefully at home after a lengthy illness on Thursday, January 2, 2014, in his 81st year. Beloved husband of Margaret Jean “Marg” Nichol. Father of Maureen (Gerry), Ian, Kevin, John, and Neil (Shannon). Grandfather of Shane and Nathan.
Born on January 16, 1933, in Montréal, QC, he was the son of the late Harold and Helen “Nellie” (nee Johnston) MacDiarmid. Stuart joined the 48th Highlanders Canada Reserve in 1950 and went overseas as a member of the 27th Brigade to serve in Northwest Europe in 1951. He subsequently transferred to the Black Watch (RHR) of Canada with whom he served from 1952-1954.
Stuart was a retired driver with Trimac (Municipal Tank Line) and was a former driver with United Van Line. He was an adherent of St. Mark’s United Church, St. Thomas. He was also a Life Member of the Toronto Branch of The Black Watch (RHR) of Canada Association, the Lord Elgin Branch #41, Royal Canadian Legion, St. Thomas, and the Elgin County Railway Museum.
In keeping with his wishes, cremation has taken place. A public memorial service to celebrate Stuart’s life will be held at the Sifton Funeral Home, 118 Wellington St., St. Thomas (519-631-1160) on Thursday, January 16th at 11:00 a.m. with visitation from 9:45–10:45 a.m. A combined memorial service will also be conducted at the funeral home on Thursday, January 16th at 10:45 a.m. by the officers and members of Lord Elgin Branch #41, Royal Canadian Legion and the Black Watch (RHR) of Canada.
Interment of Stuart’s cremated remains will be made at a later date in Elmdale Memorial Park. Flowers are gratefully declined. If so desired, memorial donations to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Ontario, LHSF Re: London Regional Cancer Program, the Elgin County Railway Museum, or the STEGH Foundation will be gratefully acknowledged.
Email messages of condolence may be sent to siftonfuneralhome@sympatico.ca