Obituary of Reverend Stewart Froese
With his loving family by his side, The Reverend Stewart G. Froese, aged 70, entered into rest at Brockville General Hospital Palliative Care on Tuesday, July 9, 2019. Reverend Froese was the loving husband of Lillian J. (Lily-Jean) Rombough-Froese, beloved father of James Froese and Jeannette Froese-LeBlanc, cherished father-in-law of Carl LeBlanc, doting grandfather of Bryson and Ella, treasured son of George Froese and the late Connie Froese, caring brother of Joy Froese and dear brother-in-law of Lynn Froese. He is fondly remembered by his cousins and aunts in Manitoba.
Reverend Froese’s favourite quote, attributed to Sir Winston Churchill, epitomized his attitude toward life: “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” He cared little for material things for himself and was extremely generous with whatever he had. He lived a very full life, raising a wonderful family and working hard as a nickel miner, heavy equipment operator, paramedic and ordained minister. Following his ordination in 1977, Reverend Froese served as a United Church Minister for more than 42 years and ministered to charges in Bath, Ontario; Hodges Cove, Newfoundland; Lansdowne, Ontario; and Brockville, Ontario. He did not just preach his faith, he also lived it.
One of Reverend Froese’s special gifts was constantly finding joy in simple, everyday things, which often became the topic of his well-known children’s stories. He loved being outdoors in nature, spending many hours in his canoe, marveling at the beauty of a sunset or listening to the songs of the frogs every spring. He was an avid rock collector, a hobby he shared with his grandchildren. He also was a talented craftsman who derived great satisfaction from building and fixing things in his woodworking shop. Most of all, he loved being with his wife and family.
Reverend Froese was an extraordinary man who will be missed dearly by all who knew and loved him. Their lives have been immeasurably enriched by his wisdom, kindness, generosity and caring.
A Memorial Service will be celebrated at Wall Street United Church on Monday July 15th, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. There will be an opportunity to meet with the family at the reception that will follow at 3 p.m. Messages of condolence may be sent online at www.barclayfuneralhome.com
Donations in Reverend Froese’s memory to Wall Street United Church, Leeds & Grenville OSPCA and/or Palliative Care, Brockville General Hospital would be greatly appreciated by the family.
