|
His own engineering interest and talent crossed over into his piping and he produced, at his Elm Tree Cottage home, the most exquisite sets of small pipes, beautifully finished and with a truly lovely tone that was heard to its best effect when played under Alex's masterful finger work.
In 1985, Pipe Major Stewart said his farewells to the Army and became a Voluntary Band Instructor with the Royal Air Force, serving at RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire. His contribution to RAF piping has been immense. Indeed, for many years he was RAF piping, leading by example and engendering a level of piping ability and interest that has seen standards improve significantly. Alex's energy was at times boundless. It was in no small part due to his efforts that the RAF Pipe Band Association was formed and that the strong relationship that exists today between the RAF and Army School of Piping was born. Alex was also a gifted composer and wrote many tunes which, although not published, are played by RAF pipers. In honour of the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Britain Alex composed the "Tribute to the Few", and his 4/4 march, the "Grey Ladies" is a tribute to the AWACS aircraft at RAF Waddington, which only recently contributed to operations in 'Iraq Freedom'.
The many pipers from around the world, Service and civilian, who have been privileged to know him, will remember Alex as an individual full of life and living who brought a love of piping and sense of tradition that was central to his piping tuition. The warmth and hospitality that Alex and Isabel extended from their home and family to their many friends will also be remembered with fondness. Our sympathy is extended to Alex's wife Isabel who only in April celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary, and to his children Elaine, Zanna, Angela, Karina and to his many grandchildren and extended family.
Wing Commander Adrian Lewis, RAF
Chairman RAF Pipe Band Association
|
