May 13, 1950 – July 27, 2026
With heavy hearts, the family of Janet Ellen Stewardson, aged 76, announces her passing on Monday, July 27, 2026 at St. Joseph’s Hospice with her loved ones nearby.
Janet was born in Fort William on May 13, 1950 to Margaret (née Love) and Charles Frederick Stewardson. After completing High School, she started working in the kitchen at Mc Kellar Hospital and later became a cook at Blackfriars’ School for Boys in Winnipeg. Upon returning to Thunder Bay, Janet attended Confederation College as part of the inaugural class of the Mental Retardation Counsellor Program in September of 1972. She held various roles including ward staff at Hogarth Hospital, worked with the Community Living Skills Program at Confederation College, served as a Residential Counsellor and vocational worker in Geraldton, traveled much of the Northshore as a Protective Services Worker and held management positions with the Geraldton Association of Community Living.
Janet was an influential figure in our community. She played a key role in founding the Organization for the Multi-Disabled which eventually evolved into the Brain Injury Association of Thunder Bay. Additionally, she helped establish the Thunder Bay Family Network. As a board member for CLTB Foundation, she continued advocating by supporting grants that help individuals achieve their dreams.
In her younger days, Janet loved traveling and camping with her family. She cherished family dinners, birthdays and holidays while also enjoying outings with her close friends. A lifelong dog lover, she appreciated all types of music and had a passion for cooking-often recalling her favorite recipes from memory. She was also an enthusiastic reader; when vision challenges arose, she quickly embraced audiobooks as an alternative.
Janet will be remembered fondly by her brother Jim (Roleen) Stewardson along with her nieces Kirsten Chambers (David Blackwood), Sarah (James) Kelso from Spruce Grove, Jordan (Jett Vansdal) from Fort Saskatchewan and Sierra along with her great-nieces and nephews Chloe, Scarlett and Charleigh Chambers; Jaxton and Keaton Kelso; Gracie and Tillie Vansdal; as well as many other relatives and friends.
She was predeceased by her parents Margaret and Charles “Fred” Stewardson; grandparents Harry and Frances Stewardson; Nell and Robert Love along with numerous aunts, uncles and extended family.
The family wishes to express gratitude to Dr. Feldstein and the nursing team at St. Joseph’s Hospice 4 North for their compassionate care during Janet’s time there.
A Funeral Service for Ms. Janet Stewardson will take place on Friday, August 14 at 11:00 am in the WESTFORT CHAPEL located at 420 West Gore Street at James led by Rev. Nancy Ringham. A private interment will follow after reception in Sunset Memorial Gardens where Janet will be laid to rest alongside her parents.
If friends wish to honor Janet’s memory through donations, contributions may be made to Community Living Thunder Bay Foundation (CLTB Foundation), which would be greatly appreciated.
Please sign the online condolences at everestofthunderbay. com
