Richard James Stewart

Rick, age 42, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away suddenly in his home from a medical emergency. He was a beloved husband, devoted father, cherished son, loving uncle, and loyal brother.

Raised in Oregon, Ohio, Rick developed a lifelong love of sports at an early age. He was a devoted Detroit sports fan, with a special passion for the University of Michigan. Rick especially enjoyed playing baseball and a highlight of his career was traveling to Puerto Rico to compete in the Little League World Series twice at ages 11 and 12—an experience that created lasting memories and friendships he carried with him throughout his life. He remained active in multiple sports growing up, often coached by his father, Jim, forming a bond built on shared passion and time together.

Rick’s mother, Judy Stewart, devoted her life to raising Rick and his brother, Randy, as a stay-at-home mom in their early years. She was deeply involved in their school activities and created a home that became a gathering place for their friends, fostering relationships that have endured to this day.

Rick later made his home in Arizona, where he devoted a great deal of his time to building a life for Alexis and Sebastian and he went out of his way to look out for his parents, something for which they will always be grateful. Rick embraced life fully, forming deep friendships and enjoying time spent at dinners, concerts, and sporting events. He loved to cook, often bringing people together around food, laughter, and conversation. Rick also loved dancing, and music. His family and friends always counted on Rick to be the DJ of the party. Wherever he went, his warmth, kindness, and infectious smile lifted the room and made others feel included.

Known for his strong work ethic, leadership, and ability to inspire others, Rick built a successful and respected career, most recently serving as Director of Operations for Creative License Intl. where he was admired for his dedication and mentorship. Rick had an exciting future planned for his family.

Despite his outgoing nature, Rick remained humble and private, never seeking attention for himself. What mattered most to him was the happiness of those around him.

Rick’s greatest joy was his family. He was a proud and dedicated father who loved coaching Sebastian’s baseball and football teams, sharing in every moment of his son’s growth and passions. Whether playing catch, watching sports, cooking meals, or simply spending time together, Rick treasured it all deeply.

Rick shared a loving partnership with his wife, Alexis, whom he met in their early twenties. Rick and Alexis had many big goals and dreams for their future, but they always made time to travel, attend concerts and spend quality time with friends and family. Their bond was unbreakable. He also shared an unbreakable bond with his brother, Randy—his best friend of over 40 years. No matter the distance, they stayed closely connected, sharing life’s moments and their love of sports. A treasured family tradition between Rick, his father Jim, and Randy was their “Buddies forever” huddle—hands together, chanting, “Buddies forever, buddies forever, break, break, break”—a ritual they carried on for more than 35 years as a symbol of their enduring bond.

Rick is survived by his loving wife, Alexis; his son, Sebastian; his parents, Jim and Judy; his brother, Randy (Lauren); and many nieces and nephews who knew him as a caring and devoted uncle. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Mary Jane Richards, and Richard and Shirley Stewart.

Rick will be remembered for his deep love of family, his generosity, his ability to bring people together, and the joy he brought to those around him. His presence lifted every room with his gigantic smile, and his memory will live on in all who knew and loved him.