Rudolph Stewart, Veteran Business Leader, Dies at 89

A memorial service is planned Jan. 5 for Rudolph Schiffmann Stewart, who carried on the long traditions of two family businesses. He died after a short illness Nov. 28 in Laguna Niguel at age 89.

Also known as “Hap” for his happy and free-spirited nature, Stewart graduated from Oregon State University and then joined his grandfather’s business, R. Schiffmann Asthmador, a tobacco firm in Los Angeles that was founded in 1867. He was the last family member to carry on in the business.

He served in World War II as captain in the medical corps. Upon his return, he pioneered a packaging company called Los Angeles Custom Packaging, serving as president for both companies.

He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Marilyn, three children, nine grandchildren and a brother. The family asks that any contributions be donated to the AIDS Services Foundation in Irvine, or any other charities in Stewart’s memory.