James D. Stewart, 60, of Albert Lea, passed away on Dec. 27, 2010, at his home. Friends may greet his family from 4 to 7 p.m., Friday at the Bayview Freeborn Funeral Home. To sign the guest book, go to www.bayviewfuneral.com.

James Douglas Stewart was born on Dec. 1, 1950, in Minneapolis, the son of Raymond and Delrose (Theisen) Stewart. He grew up in Cold Spring and graduated from Rocori High School in 1969. Following high school Jim enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving four years at sea, and two years in the reserve, with an honorable discharge in 1975. After he left the service Jim returned to school, first to vocational school and then earning a degree in social work. Jim worked as a social worker for Cedar Valley Services in Albert Lea. He was a member of the Fountain Lake Sportsmen’s Club, the American Legion and a local mentoring program. He also belonged to Recycled Fish, a sportsmen’s environmental association. Jim was an avid fisherman and outdoorsman. He loved fishing and camping. He particularly enjoyed taking fishing trips to Canada. He also liked do-it-yourself projects.

Survivors include his son, Jesse Stewart, of Albert Lea; his parents: Delrose and Raymond Stewart; sister, Brenda (James) Dockendorf; brothers: Michael (Linda) Stewart, Robert (Joyce) Stewart, and Jeffrey Stewart; seven nieces and a nephew.

Jim was preceded in death by his grandparents.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Recycled Fish, 605 N. 12th St., Nebraska, City, NE 68410 or www.recycledfish.org.