John F. Stewart, chief of Local Markets and Government Banking and member of the Executive Management team at Flushing Bank, passed at age 62.

Stewart joined Flushing Bank in 2014 as executive vice president, chief of staff and was promoted to senior executive vice president in July 2018. In his most recent role as Local Markets chief, he was responsible for growing the government, consumer and business banking customer relationships.

Before joining Flushing Bank, he was president and CEO of First National Bank of New York. Prior to that, Stewart held various senior level positions including Local Markets President and Managing Director of National Distribution for Citibank.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of our friend and colleague. Although his time with us was too short he had a tremendous impact on our organization,” said John R. Buran, Flushing president and CEO. “His broad expertise and strategic prowess contributed great value to our executive team. In addition to his outstanding achievements, John had a terrific sense of humor and a quick wit. He had a unique and engaging charm that enabled him to relate to investors, analysts, and staff equally. He took great pride in getting to know all of our employees on a first name basis. John and I have become close friends in the past few years and I will miss him. He has left a void in our organization and our hearts that will be difficult to fill. He will be greatly missed by all.”

Funeral arrangements will be posted on the company’s website.