"Our hearts" brim with gratitude for the privilege of knowing and loving so many facets of Merle Arthur Stewart's life… with heartfelt sadness, Merle passed away on Friday, November 10, 2023 after a short illness.  Merle was born in Hamilton, Bermuda on August 17, 1951, son of the late Doris (Guiel) Stewart Ragazzi and Merle Stewart.  He was predeceased by a sister, Nancy Stewart Narney.  Merle, at an early age, traveled the world being part of a military family.  He enjoyed many wonderful life experiences to which he shared openly.  Merle took great pride in the one's he loved, both family and friends.  He lived a life as a true "gentlemen", never speaking a disparaging word against anyone.  He had a welcoming smile and a wonderful sense of humor.  Merle was very intelligent, he loved to read and would read two to three books a week for most of his life.  His knowledge of the world, its history and events were overwhelming.  Merle started his career in the automobile business for which he excelled, advancing to finance manager and operations manager, enjoying many years in that field.  He was also an avid car enthusiast.  He later assisted at "Lady in Red" antiques for several years.  After his retirement in 2014, Merle became a loyal and valued member of Big Y Foods in East Longmeadow.  Here he was loved by many of his loyal customers and fellow employees.  He was certainly a "World Class Employee". Surviving Merle is his life partner of fifty years, Ron Carle who they shared so many beautiful memories together.  He leaves a "loving companion, Trevor Hiatt Smith" who he cared for and loved so very much!.  He also leaves his loving sister, Catherine Fiore and her husband, Richard Fiore, a brother, James Stewart and his wife, Catherine Stewart. Also, a very close friend, Kristopher Morell who Merle shared many good times and talks for over twenty-five years.  He thought of Kris as a son he never had! He also leaves several nieces and nephews.  Merle had a "special" place in his heart for all the family's rescued dogs and cats who were provided with a loving and caring home over many years.  Merle was a kind soul and will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. May his beautiful soul rest in peace.  The funeral will be Wednesday at 9am from the Curran Jones Funeral Home, 109 Main St., West Springfield followed by a service at 10 at South Congregational Church, 45 Maple Street followed by burial in Springfield Cemetery, both in Springfield.  Calling hours are Tuesday from 3-7pm.  For online condolences, please visit www.curranjones.com