Stuart Winfield Baraw Jr., affectionately known as Stu, Big Stu, Papa Stu and Stud Stu passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 5th at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy of family, entrepreneurship, community service, adventure, and friendship.

Born on July 25, 1941, in Cambridge, MA, Stu was the eldest son of Stuart W. Baraw Sr. and Beatrice Baraw. From an early age, he embraced life with boundless energy and enthusiasm. He was active in scouting, becoming an Eagle Scout, excelled in athletics, and developed a lifelong love for the outdoors. Soccer and skiing quickly became his passions, and his athletic talents eventually led him to compete in ski jumping and ski racing while attending prep school and college.

Stu attended Cushing Academy before continuing his education at the University of Connecticut and Norwich University. Following his studies, he proudly served his country in the United States Army and Army Reserve for two years.

In 1963, Stu's life took a pivotal turn. His father envisioned building a small country inn on two acres adjacent to the family's ski house in Stowe, Vermont. Newly married to the love of his life, Marion, Stu embraced the opportunity. Together they relocated to Stowe and poured their hearts into bringing that dream to life. What began as a modest inn would become the renowned Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa. Through years of tireless work, unwavering dedication, and countless sacrifices, Stu and Marion helped build the Stoweflake into one of Vermont's most beloved destinations.

Although his work ethic was extraordinary, Stu always found time to pursue new adventures. His curiosity knew few limits. He was a car enthusiast, became an accomplished golfer, he was a hunter, he became a licensed pilot flying fixed-wing aircraft and hot air balloons. He was also quite the Black Jack, Poker player and sailor. Whatever challenge or hobby captured his imagination, Stu approached it with passion, determination, and an eagerness to share it with those around him.

Stu believed deeply in giving back to the community that had become his home. In 1968, he helped establish the Joe Kirkwood Memorial Golf Tournament, an event that continues to thrive today. In the early 1970s, he founded the Stowe Ski Bum Races, creating a tradition that has brought generations of skiers together for friendly competition and fun. For decades, he was an integral part of the Stowe Winter Carnival, organizing and directing numerous community events that became treasured annual traditions.

Later, sailing became another lifelong passion. Stu owned several sailboats over the years and became an accomplished captain, finding peace and joy on the open water. Whether sailing with friends and family, Flying Hot Air Balloons, organizing a community event, Stu's greatest happiness came from sharing experiences with others.

In 1980, Stu embarked on yet another successful chapter by beginning a career in real estate. His integrity, work ethic, and genuine care for people quickly earned him a reputation as one of Vermont's most accomplished and respected Realtors. Over the course of his distinguished career, he became one of the state's most prolific real estate professionals and ultimately served as President of the Vermont Realtors Association, where he worked tirelessly to advance the profession and mentor others.

While Stu's accomplishments were many, they never defined him as much as the relationships he built. He cherished his family above all else and believed that life's greatest joys were meant to be shared. Whether introducing loved ones to skiing, sailing, golf, aviation, or simply gathering together with friends, Stu found his greatest fulfillment in creating memories with the people he loved.

Stu will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, entrepreneurial vision, generosity, infectious laugh, enthusiasm for life and his unwavering commitment to his family, friends, and community. His legacy lives on not only through the organizations he helped build and the traditions he created, but also through the countless lives he touched with his kindness, mentorship, and friendship.

Stuart is survived by his devoted wife, Marion Baraw; his daughter, Sonja Raymond; his son, Scot Baraw; his grandchildren, Greg Raymond, Jake Baraw, and Jenna Baraw; his great-grandson, Beau Baraw; and his sister, Donna Wheeler.

His family will forever remember him as a fiercely devoted family man, incredibly loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, father-in-law, and friend whose adventurous spirit inspired everyone fortunate enough to know him.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like to encourage donations to the Joe Kirkwood Memorial Tournament , benefiting the Stuart Baraw Jr. Jr. Golf fund. A cause that reflected Stu's lifelong passions and commitment to helping others. All proceeds will help purchase golf memberships for area youth. The best way to do this is to Venmo to @kirkwoodgolftournament.com

A celebration of Stu's life will be held at the Stoweflake resort on July 16th from 4:00-6:00PM where family and friends will gather to honor a life truly lived to the fullest.