Prof. Stewart joined Trent as an assistant professor of German on July 1, 1965, and became the acting chairman of Modern Languages on March 24, 1966. In the same year, he received a Canada Council Grant to enable him to further his studies in Germany, focusing on the life and works of modern German author R. A. Schroder. From February 1967 to June 1971, Prof. Stewart was the chairman of the Department of German at Trent, and later served a three-year term as the associate chairman of the German Studies Section of the Modern Languages and Literature Department, and subsequently served as chairman of the Department of Modern Languages and Literatures itself. He retired on July 1, 1993.

Below is an excerpt from his obituary:

David will be greatly missed by his children Evelyn (Pike), Andrew, Martin, Ian and their spouses. He will be remembered fondly for his always thoughtful, engaging presence, and prayerful concern for his 13 grandchildren. David maintained a close and loving relationship with his brother Gordon, sisters Patricia, Muriel, and their spouses, as well as Helga’s family in Germany. David and Helga lived a life of joyful discovery, exploring the character of God and the beauty of his creation. Their life was marked by hospitality and an active concern for the poor and needy. David’s life’s work was delivered in the lecture theatre (McMaster University, Trent University, St. Stephen’s University, Augustine College), pulpit, public debate and written word. His hallmark was to deliver the truth with quality, humour, economy of words and carefully constructed purpose. He has left his mark on countless students, colleagues, friends, and especially his children. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 4, 2014 at 3:00 pm., St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church, 971 Woodroffe Avenue, Ottawa. David’s family will greet friends at 2:00 pm. before the service and at a reception following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Inter-Varsity Christian Fellowship (IVCF); or St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church, Ottawa.

The University extends heartfelt sympathies to Prof. Stewart’s family and friends, and to all who knew him at Trent University. In honour of Prof. Stewart’s time at Trent, the University will lower the flag atop the Bata Library to the half-mast position in the week leading up to his memorial service.

Posted on Tuesday, September 23, 2014.