Theodore Clemenceau Stewart

Theodore Clemenceau Stewart of Oakland, who worked at the Lab as an electronics technician and supervisor for more than 20 years, died June 1 at the Orinda Convalescent and Rehabilitation Hospital. He was 90.

Born in Tucson, Ariz., on Jan. 28, 1920, he graduated from Booker T. Washington High School.

Stewart served in the Army during World War II and was stationed in the Philippines. After the war, he worked at the Naval Air Station in Alameda for 15 years.

After his retirement, he opened Stewart Electronics on Fruitvale Avenue, where he sold and serviced electronic equipment. He also was a long-time amateur radio, or “ham” radio operator.

His love for this hobby introduced him to many people around the world, some of whom he would meet in person. His proudest moment came during the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, when his voice and call sign WGNPB became a lifeline for reconnecting people separated by the disaster.

He was an avid stamp collector and a lover of music, particularly classical and jazz.

He is survived by his wife, Lillian Stewart and four children: sons, Theodore Stewart, Craig Stewart, Kevin Stewart, and daughter, Cheryl Tolan; grandchildren, Felicia Stewart, Heidi Stewart, April Stewart and Erin Stewart; great grandchildren, Noah Gomes, Quincey Kohr and Kelsey Stewart.

A memorial service will be held today (June 11) at 10 a.m. at The Chapel of the Chimes, 4499 Piedmont Ave., Oakland, CA 94611. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Stewart’s name to the Hospice of the East Bay.