Obituary of Stuart Shearer

June 11, 1940 – Clinton, Ontario

October 30, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

James Stuart Shearer passed away on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, in Calgary, AB. Stuart was the precious son of James Caven Shearer and Beatrice Grace (Quennell) and the loving brother of sisters Virginia Bechtel Gruen and Wendy Shearer (George Goddard) of Guelph. He is lovingly remembered by his son, Mark Shearer; daughters, Susan Thompson and Holly Kattler (Layn Kattler); and their mother, Toni Shearer. He was predeceased by his son-in-law, Chris Thompson. He will be especially missed by his four granddaughters, Dr. Ellen Thompson (Aleks Poldma), Natalie Thompson, Lara Kattler (Paolo Majerano), and Tia Kattler. He will also be missed by Virginia’s children, Brad Bechtel (Joanne), Jane Robb (Scott), and David Bechtel (Wendy), and their children.

Stuart was born in Clinton, ON, on June 11, 1940, and grew up on the one-hundred-acre farm at Bright, Blandford Township, Oxford County, ON. The farm neighboured the original Shearer farmstead settled upon arriving from Scotland in 1852.

Stuart joined the RCMP in 1959 and rose to the rank of Inspector before retiring at the age of 53. He was stationed in various towns throughout Southern and Northern Alberta followed by postings in Toronto, Hamilton, and Vancouver.

After retirement for the next three decades, he focused on his investments and enjoyed his time in Arizona and Calgary. Stuart loved his many lifelong friends from both his early years in Bright and his fellow RCMP members. He loved Canadian art that captured the rugged beauty of this land.

His love of sports continued throughout his life having begun early playing hockey at the Plattsville arena and baseball at Bright Park. Stuart was a gifted storyteller sharing his many memories of growing up on the farm and his later life experiences.

Facing terminal cancer, Stuart chose Medical Assistance in Dying with clear resolve. He was surrounded by his loving family who witnessed his dignity during this final act of courage.  He will be remembered as a generous spirit who left a remarkable legacy of caring.

A Service of Remembrance for Stuart will take place in April 2025 at Glendinning Funeral Home, Plattsville, ON, including commitment at Chesterfield Cemetery, where he will be laid to rest among many Shearer family members.

There will also be a small private ceremony in Calgary in the spring to celebrate Stuart’s life. Further details for both services will follow.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Stuart’s family here.

In living memory of Stuart Shearer, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.