Obituary: Nicholas A. "Nick" Steward

Nicholas A. "Nick" Steward, 33, passed away on Oct. 4, 2013 in Vernon Hills.

He was born Sept. 17, 1980 in Lake Forest, IL, was raised in Vernon Hills and has lived in Lake Villa since 2007. He was a 1999 graduate of Libertyville High School, where he participated in track and diving for the swimming team. He was a member and altar server at St. Mary of Vernon Church and held two associates degrees from the College of Lake County in manufacturing. While at CLC, Nick participated in Skills USA, was an engineering black belt in Six Sigma and was a CSWP, Certified Solidworks Professional and CSST, Certified Solidworks Support Technician.

Surviving are his wife Megan Steward, nee DeRousse and son Declan Steward, both of Lake Villa; his parents, Don and Kathy Steward of Vernon Hills; sister, Nancy (Ken) Wisniewski and their son Kyle, all of Plainfield, IL and his grandparents, Thad and Alice Steward of Buffalo Grove. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, John and Evelyn Kokasko.

Visitation will be from 3 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 10, 2013 at St. Mary of Vernon Church, 236 W. Hwy 45, Indian Creek, IL 60061. A Memorial Prayer Service will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, during the visitation. A graveside service will be held on Friday at Lakeside Cemetery in Libertyville.

Memorial contributions can be made to the family as an education fund is being established for his son. Declan was the ray of sunshine in his father's life and every day when he hears the garage door open, he is waiting to give his daddy his final zombie/ pirate growl.

Arrangements are by the Burnett-Dane Funeral Home in Libertyville. Information: 847-362-3009 or sign the guest book at www.burnettdane.com.

—Burnett-Dane Funeral Home provided this information.