James Russell Stewart

James Russell Stewart, PhD, 81, of Vermillion, SD died on Feb 23, 2023. Jim was born June 9, 1941, in Minneapolis, MN to Russell and Bernice (Orr) Stewart.

Jim is survived by his wife of 59 years, Ann (Eide) Stewart, daughter Christine (Steve) Bruning of Sioux Falls, SD and son Mitchell (Kelly) Stewart of Indianapolis, IN. Jim had three grandchildren, Michael (Dominique) Bruning of Los Angeles, CA, Ben Bruning of Sioux Falls, SD and Maxine Stewart of Indianapolis, IN. Jim had one sister, Mary Jo (Stewart) Salzman of Elkton, SD and their children, Jackie, Jeff and Jason Salzman.

Jim loved spending time with his family!

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Bernice.

Jim enjoyed a 30-year career at the University of South Dakota (USD) where he was a Sociology Professor, Chair of the Sociology Department and Associate Dean of the Arts and Science College. He loved supporting the USD Coyotes in all sports – football, basketball, track and field and especially, volleyball. His favorite way to spend time was to cheer on the Yotes!

Jim is well known by friends and family for a wonderful sense of humor whether he was delighting co-workers with fun stories, teasing his friends on the Vermillion Golf Course or playing little pranks on family and friends.

He was especially proud and grateful of the friendships he developed in his college years and who continued to be lifetime friends.

His children are very thankful for his love and support throughout their lives – he never missed a sporting event or report card, gave great advice and cheered their achievements from childhood to adulthood.

Jim and Ann lived over 50 years in the community of Vermillion where they enjoyed meaningful friendships, rewarding careers and wonderful memories.

As an avid fan of the Minnesota Twins and Chicago Bears, he enjoyed the highs and lows of professional sports.

Special thanks to the staff of Vermillion Care Center who took such wonderful care of Jim.

Per Jim’s wishes, there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, please give memorials to the Memory Unit in the Vermillion Care Center.