Brandon Michael Robert Stewart was granted his angel wings in the early morning hours of March 25, 2015. Brandon was surrounded by those he had touched in his very short yet memorable life. Brandon’s life was too short to many, but those who were touched by him understood that when he was placed with Stewart Family the quality of his existence far exceeded the time he was given. His gentle smile and large blue eyes sparkled; he could melt the hearts of those around him. Though he never spoke a word, his voice and thoughts could always be heard.
When Brandon was only two ½ months old he was put in the foster home of Ron and Lydia Stewart who accepted Brandon with open arms. They were told very little other than he had “shaken baby syndrome” and the prognosis was grim if he would survive the night. If he did survive he would have lifelong medical needs. Ron and Lydia cared for Brandon for his first year of life and then were granted adoption on November 16, 2010 at the age of 5. Brandon was never able to speak, walk, rollover or sit but could smile and show off his giant blue eyes.
Brandon’s special needs made him appear frail however he possessed strength, perseverance and an ability to overcome incredible odds and physical challenges. With his courage he led us to believe that each day is a blessing and an opportunity to create lasting memories. He enjoyed sponge bob square pants music and nursery rhymes on tape. He loved his teddy bears, soft blankets and the sounds of Skye “Scooter” and the many other family and friends in which could make him smile.
With Brandon’s passing we remind others that his life is one to celebrate. Although we will miss him every day, especially his beautiful eyes and smile, He will forever remain in our hearts. He was never able to live a life he so deserved; such an innocent sweet boy. We will meet again, until then our hearts ache and tears fall. We take faith in the knowledge you are now free; free to run, free to laugh, and free to eat whatever you wish Bugga Boo!
Brandon is survived by his loving parents, Ron and Lydia Stewart of Helena MT; brother Ronald Stewart Jr. (Kathryn) of Boston MA; Mary Roxbury (Traverse City MI); Lori Stewart-Schroeder (Shawn) Helena MT; Dorothy Meyers (Cody) Williston ND; Skye Stewart Helena MT; and his nephews Chris Meek (Minneapolis MN), Grayson and Shay Schroeder (Helena MT) and nieces Niki Roxbury (Traverse City MI) and Isabella Meyers (Williston ND)
He was preceded by his wonderfully loving Aunt Eileen Joiner of Newburgh NY.
The family will be present during visitation from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, March 29, 2015 at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Interment will follow at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery at Ft. Harrison, MT. A reception for family and friends will be held in the social center of the funeral home following the burial.
Service Schedule
Visitation
1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Sunday March 29, 2015
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Service
2:00 p.m.
Monday March 30, 2015
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeal Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Burial
Following the funeral service
Monday March 30, 2015
Montana State Veterans Cemetery
Fort Harrison, Montana
Reception
Following the burial
Monday March 30, 2015
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Visitation
1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Sunday March 29, 2015
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Service
2:00 p.m.
Monday March 30, 2015
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeal Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Burial
Following the funeral service
Monday March 30, 2015
Montana State Veterans Cemetery
Fort Harrison, Montana
Reception
Following the burial
Monday March 30, 2015
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
kelly schroeder rhimer says
It would have to be two angels to accept and love and care for Brandon. I have never met Brandon nor Lydia and Ron, but i am extremely thankful for humans as wondetful as the two of you. I wish to thank your hearts for taking care of tjis young man. God bless you both and Brandon.
Amber Guge says
Spread your wings and fly freely, Brandon. You’ll never be forgotten.
Paul Heath says
Ron and Lydia, although Brandon’s time on earth was relatively short, his quality of care during that time was exceptional. You were wonderful parents to him. He lived much longer, I think, than he would have without your care. Peace be with you and Skye. –Paul
Rita Haskins says
Dear Lydia and Ron- thinking of you after I heard of Brandon’s passing. He was lucky to have you and you were lucky to have him. May fond memories help you through- Rita O.T.
Wilma West says
You don’t know me and I don’t know you, but I’ll tell you that you are in my prayers for what you did for that little boy, and what he did for you. God will bless you all; Thank Him for people like you!.
God Bless.
Wilma
Diane Bullock says
Ryan and Lydia I am so sorry to hear about his passing. You were the best parents he could ever have had. My heart just aches for both of you. Later in time all the good memories you shared with him will help to fill the hole he left in your heart. All my love to you both. Diane