Bert Stewart Memorial Fund

My name is Nina, and I am Bert's daughter. My father was found to be suffering a stroke on Februrary 27th, 2016. He was flown to UPMC Presby, where he was stabilized, but we realized the severity of the damage. He was stable for a few days, uttering a few words and sentences, but once we began rehab the doctors finally realized the extent of his loss. His kidneys were damaged, his heart functions at less than 10 percent, and he will never eat, speak, walk, sit, or hug his grandsons ever again. His mind is gone. Based upon discussions we have had about his wishes in this kind of situation, I had to make the heartbreaking choice to end my father's suffering and let him go to God. My father was a loving dad, great painter, proud Pap Pap, veteran and firefighter. He knew the value of a friend, and what it meant to stand up for what you believe in. 

My father lost his life insurance when we lost our home in the recession. He as no money, no worldly valuables to help offset the cost, and my own health issues have drained my accounts. My daddy deserves an honorable send off... he wasn't rich, didnt have much, but he knew the value of what he had, and who he was with. 

We are trying to fund a basic service for my dad. He is entitled to very little from the military, and I just want to do my best to honor what was a simple, but full life. 

We do need the money as soon as possible, as I don't know how the funeral home will work with us regarding cost. 

While my father's sould will be with the Lord, it will set mine at rest knowing that I can do this last thing for him in this life, and I will be eternally greatful.