Thomas Ward Obituary

It's hard for me to believe that your second anniversary is coming up. I think about you everyday and miss you so much. I know you are all sitting on a cloud, beer in hand, looking down on us. Till we meet again. Love you Tom

We decided to memorialize stories so we can always remember them and pass them on. We love to talk about your cooking. Renee jokes about how you tried to get her to eat pork chops by telling her it was chicken,

I remember when Tom retired and became a stay home Dad; we would car pool together. He always had great stories of the kids' conversations in the car, or wonderful recipes to share. Alyssa and Austin adored his smile and sense of humor. He was a wonderful man, husband and father. I think about him and all of you often. He left a treasured legacy for all who knew him. God bless Tom and all of you!

I didn't know Mr. Ward for very long, but I could tell that he was a loving father and husband who was devoted to his family. While taking part in the musicals at Victor J. Andrew, I had the privilege of working with the Ward family. I performed with their highly talented children, and came into contact with Mr. and Mrs. Ward whenever they came to serve the cast before the show. They had such positive spirits and were so kind to all of us. I remember Mr. Ward smiling and making small talk with me after lunch; I could truly sense what a genuinely caring individual he was. He was a dad's dad with a warm heart. Hearing the news of his passing last summer was heartbreaking, but the Ward family has been lifted up in many prayers for strength and peace. Their friends and family continue to pray and provide their support.
To the Ward family: We love you guys, and so does he. He is looking down on you all with the same love in his heart that he had during his life here on Earth. I know that he is proud of all the strength you have exemplified during this past year, and he is proud of what each of you will become. You are all wonderful and were blessed with such a loving father. My family will be praying, but PLEASE let me know if you need anything else.
Love,

What can I say about Tom. He was a great friend and a second father to my boys. Not a day goes by that I don't think of him. He was a family man above all, whether they were blood or just the ever present group of kids that always seem to migrate to the Ward house.Tom was always willing to help out. Whether it was driving the Ward Limo or grilling for the group, he was always willing to lend a helping hand. I still to this day find myself looking for him on the road. Tom could enjoy himself wherever he was, be it in the Amana Colonies or Alma :) One of his true joys was watching his children perform in their various shows and sporting events. It always was a great comfort to know I had one more person in the audience rooting on my children as much as we were. I know he was a spirit rooting from the heavens during Steve's last show. I know he would be proud of the strength and compassion his children and Fran have shown during this last year. I know there is a big piece missing from their everyday lives, but they have continued to honor Tom's memory every day.There is no finer tribute for Tom than his part in molding such fine children and the love than Fran continues to show each and every day. I know it is hard to put feelings into words, I only hope that I was able to convey a portion of my love and respect for Tom.

All My Love,

Patti

Mr. Ward was one of the most loving people we have ever seen. Whenever we came over for a party, he genuinely seemed to love being around others. Whenever Vinny would witness an argument happening between his children, mr. Ward was quick to break it up because he believes family should stick together and not tear itself apart over silly things. If mr. Ward ever raised his voice or got mad at anyone, he was always quick to apologize. He was one of the best family men we have ever known and his philosophies on family could inspire any father out there. Not a day doesn't go by where we aren't thinking about him. Until we meet again, thanks for the great memories, Mr. Ward.

I remember all the times when all of us kids would be playing baseball in the backyard and our dads would be having a bonfire watching us play until we couldn't see a single thing anymore and he'd always tell me to join a team, when we were at the october fest and just did everything together and in Disney when he started dancing, and just the other day my dad and I talked about when we were playing hide and seek and hid in the cushion storage container and that kid (I forgot his name) sat on us and trapped us in and your dad came out and yelled at him then we all started laughing! I remember that grand villa we all had in Disney and how we'd all sit around the tv and watch the Olympics before bed! And one of my favorites is every year when we would all go to the races and hangout in the field together! There's so many memories and it's impossible to write them all down!

Tom was such a caring and supportive husband and father and I saw the spark in his eyes every time he talked about his children. He would rightfully "brag" about each one of his talented, smart, beautiful children. He loved them so much and you could see it in his face while he watched his precious kids perform!! I wish all fathers were as lovingly uplifting as Tom Ward. More children would be able to have their dreams come true!

Tom there is not a day that goes by that I don't think of you. I remember the trip that Wally and I and Fran and you took to Mount Rushmore in SD before kids. We had so much fun sitting at the Red Garter Saloon and playing Pull Tabs such a great time. I also remember that it was storming the day you flew out and the plane was a little plane and all I kept thinking was good thing we had drinks before you got on that plane. Then there was our trip to NYC we you took us to the Mets and Yankees game we saw 42nd street and we just had so many laughs. That is one thing I miss the most is your laugh. Then we had our families and we met in Florida at Disney for the day the kids were so little but it was so much fun. Lastly was our trip to Colorado we find some pretty off the beaten path places. The candy factory, buckskin joe's for the hangin the race to drink the yard where Wally tried to drown me. The kids just enjoying the time together. We went to the Rockies game and just had fun. Then there are the countless holidays, bbq's and parties that we always were at. You were always so generous to everyone. But I think the thing I miss is you telling Wally those to are SISTER'S and Fran and I would break into song. I miss and love you! You will always be in my heart. You were the best brother in law!

Karen

I always wished for 1 last time with the Wards to go to Disney. Mr. Tom was basically my 2nd dad, & I'll always remember every memory of him. Especially Disney.

My brother Thomas, Tommy to me was always a very special person in my life. He was always there for me and I for him. Growing up with Tom I always thought he looked like Ricky Nelson especially the way he wore his hair with the curl coming down his forehead. Tommy always loved to have fun & go out. He was meticulous about his clothes & cars. He was my dance partner at weddings. Tommy was my best friend and I miss him so very much. i will always remember my brother with a smile on his face & a twinkle in his eye. He will never be forgotten.

Mr. Ward was an amazing person who always welcomed me into his home. He and his family were very close to me and I wish he could still be here. He loved to listen to us play the piano and sing along. Every time I hear the song "Hallelujah" I think of him because that was one of his favorite songs that we sang. Rest in peace Mr. Ward, we all miss you.

Whenever I think of Uncle Tom, I always picture him smiling and laughing...it could be about something funny or it could be he was teasing someone...usually me. Loved his 4th of July BBQs, and hanging out with the family. Uncle Tom will be missed. </3

We miss you Tom! Family and friends have great memories of you and you are truly missed !

Dear Grandpa. I miss you. loved when you guys came to visit the family.

I will always remember when hecame into Wendy's and ordered all of the food for everyone and I asked u must have a lot of people to feed and he said yea I have a big family. Miss u Mr. Ward.

I am so sorry Tom had to leave his wonderful family so soon and think of all of you often, hoping you continue to be blessed with warm memories of your time together.

When I think of him, his ready smile, sense of humor, quick wit, unfailing devotion and dedication to his family, and incredible pride in his children come to mind. After his retirement, he was a frequent presence at school, dropping off items for his kids, picking them up, helping with sets and anything else that would add to the quality of experiences his children would enjoy. He was realistic about their gifts, unique individuality, and worked in partnership with his loving wife to make wise decisions that resulted in finding the perfect collegiate fit for three of his children. His love and devotion to his family were always evident, something I admired and respected.

I believe that his guiding presence and God's love will continue to give you the strength needed as you walk through your own lives. I suspect "What would Dad/Tom do?" will be a routine question in your decisions.

I remember in Orchesis, you would tell us that you always knew where your mom was because she would have an IPad recording the show to show your dad. I thought that was so sweet of her to do for your dad. Stay strong. But, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers! If you guys ever need anything just let me know! Love you!

Dear Dad,
I love and miss you everyday. I cry every time I think about you, and wish you were here to see me achieve through college. I hope to one day see you again, and pray that you watch over us.
Love,
Renee

Although I never had the joy of spending large amounts of time with Tom my fondest memories are actually from my mom and dad. Mom adored Tom. Dad felt he fit with the family so well. They both loved his devotion to his family both immediate and extended. It gives me comfort to know that mom and Tom sit beside each other as they watch over us. It was that warm smile and jolly laughter.

Mr. Ward has always been a wonderful father, husband, neighbor, and friend. It was rare to see him without a smile and that is something I truly miss. Pool parties and Halloween parties were always something I looked forward to as a child and he always had a way of making them special.

Tom fought his illness with courage and now he's at peace with the Lord. He'll be watching over you always. God Bless You All.

We are sorry for your loss. We are keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers. Michelle, Danny and Cody English

so sorry for ur loss ur prayers will be for him always

john cullotta and family

Tom will be missed. He was a great boss and dear friend.. I am so sorry for your loss and you are in my thoughts and prayers.

We are so sorry for you loss. We will keep you in our prayers.
Tony & Bonnie Zuponeck

You are in our thoughts and prayer.

Uncle George and Aunt Barb