Stuart Charles Stein

Stuart Charles Stein passed away on January 17, 2024 with family by his side. Stuart was born April 26, 1956 in Sedalia Missouri to John L. and Betty Lou Stein.

 The youngest of 4 children, his family moved from Missouri back to Los Alamos in 1957, where he grew up and attended Los Alamos Public Schools until he graduated in 1974. While in high school, he developed a love for music and playing the drums. He was in the marching band and played in bands throughout his 20’s & 30’s in Los Alamos and Santa Fe.

After high school, Stuart joined the United States Marine Corps. like his father, mother and aunts and uncles before him. Due to injuries from a motorcycle accident that occurred while he was still in high school, he was unable to continue to serve his country and was honorably discharged. The injuries from this accident played a part in struggles that he carried with him for the remainder of his life.

Along with his passion for playing the drums, music was a big part of his life. He knew so much about music and bands, especially The Beatles, and had a huge record collection that he loved. Stuart was a history buff and enjoyed watching documentaries and reading historical non-fiction. He was also a believer in Christ and spent a good amount of time reading his Bible, taking notes, and memorizing scripture.  He liked fishing at his favorite places in the Jemez mountains and at the Los Alamos Reservoir.

Stuart worked most of his career in the grocery business, starting at Safeway in 1976.  Throughout every transition of the store from Safeway to Furr’s to Smith’s and finally over To Ed’s Supermarket, he loved what he did and the people he worked with.  Following that, he managed The Hill Top Gas station and Deli Mart.  He worked hard and always wanted to make customers feel welcome and happy.  

He finished his career driving the van at Sombrillo Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. This job allowed him to continue his service around Los Alamos and with the residents themselves. He took joy in making sure they got to their appointments and loved to make them smile and laugh along the way.

Stuart always had a smile and a joke, even if he had to make one up. Even from an early age, he loved being funny and making people smile.

Stuart is survived by his sister, Carrie Stein of NY, his daughter Lori Ellard (Shane) of Knoxville TN, his son Stuart Stein, Jr. (Erin) of Los Alamos, and 9 grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Paula Stein of Albuquerque, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews whom he loved dearly.

Stuart is preceded in death by his sister, Donna Beth Long; his mother, Betty Lou Stein and father, John L. Stein; and most recently his brother, Stephen L. Stein.

A service will be held for Stuart Feb. 12, 2024 at the Santa Fe National Cemetery at 12:30 p.m.

Please consider making a donation in his name to the Los Alamos Senior Center or any local food bank or church of your choice.

Please feel encouraged to leave messages for the family, stories of Stuart’s life, and photos here.