STUART, Victor John - On August 13th, 2020, God called home a much beloved servant, Vic Stuart.
Vic was born in Cape Town, South Africa on September 20, 1933. As a young man in an electrical apprenticeship with South African Railways he responded to the gospel and to the call of God upon his life for missionary service. He completed his training, attended Cape Town Bible Institute and with his fiancee, Mavis Davidson, they were accepted by SIM South Africa. They travelled to Nigeria to begin Hausa Language studies and prepare for their work.
Vic and Mavis were married January 3, 1958, in Jos, where they spent most of their more than 20 years in Nigeria. Their daughter Vicki and son David were both born there.
Throughout his years in Nigeria Vic was known as a man of self-discipline, love for others, administrative giftedness and one who enjoyed life. There was always time for laughter and humour. Everyone loved Vic for he brought joy and fun to situations while at the same time maintaining an excellence in ministry.
His missionary ministry began in Christian Literature work and continued on into mission administration both in Nigeria and later in Canada. Vic loved young people and in his evenings after work got involved in the local Youth for Christ, in the evening Bible classes as well as singing - Vic loved music. Saturday afternoons you might often find or hear Vic on the tennis court with any game opponent.
Early on in their missionary service it became necessary for Vic and Mavis to change their citizenship. They applied for and were eventually granted Canadian citizenship in 1966.
In September 1976 Vic was asked by the SIM Canada office to become Assistant to the Canada Director and later National Secretary for SIM Canada. The Stuarts were actively involved at their home Church - Calvary Associated Gospel Church when on furlough and on their return to Canada. In 1998 Vic retired from his administrative role and took on the member care of SIM retirees enjoying traveling across the country to encourage, counsel and help these valued ministry partners.
Vic and Mavis moved to Newmarket to be closer to David and his family while keeping close contact with Vicki and her family in Texas. Vic and Mavis were active members at Grace Church in Newmarket until health limited their participation.
In recent years Vic suffered with progressive memory loss eventually necessitating admission to Aurora Rest Haven where he was lovingly cared for by the staff and his family. Vic slipped into the presence of his Saviour Thursday, August 13. His life and work for Glory to God alone. Arrangements with Taylor funeral home, Newmarket.
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