Passages: Stewart Powell Redfern

Stewart Powell Redfern of Friday Harbor, Wash., passed away Sept. 28, 2008 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Bellingham, Wash. He was 65. Stew was born June 24, 1943 in Seattle, Wash., to Don and Mary Redfern. Stew grew up with a love of the outdoors and exploring the many places of the Pacific Northwest. The proverbial wild child, Stew had a small habit of finding trouble where no trouble seemed to be. If trouble could not be found, he would settle for mischief. These traits were with him to the end.

Stewart Powell Redfern of Friday Harbor, Wash., passed away Sept. 28, 2008 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Bellingham, Wash.

He was 65.

Stew was born June 24, 1943 in Seattle, Wash., to Don and Mary Redfern. Stew grew up with a love of the outdoors and exploring the many places of the Pacific Northwest. The proverbial wild child, Stew had a small habit of finding trouble where no trouble seemed to be. If trouble could not be found, he would settle for mischief. These traits were with him to the end.

Arriving in Friday Harbor in 1972 to help run the cannery, Stew spent many years working as a commercial fisherman, electrician and plumber. Stew loved the islands and the unique people who called them home.

Stew is survived by his loving wife, friend and partner, Jane Broadwater-Redfern, whom he married in 1988 after dating for seven years. Stew is also survived by his sons, Sam Owen and Rod Redfern, and his two granddaughters.

The family wishes to thank the San Juan Aid Unit, Med-Flight services, and the staff at St. Joseph’s Hospital for their outstanding care and compassion in Stew’s final hours. The family would also like to take the time to personally thank the islanders who have been so gracious in forgiving the bad times and remembering the good. Your love and words of kindness have been most welcome.

In lieu of flowers, please make a financial donation to Evans Funeral Chapel and Crematory — (360) 293-3311 — in Anacortes, Wash.

— Family of Stewart Powell Redfern