Richard "Dick" Lee Ward's Obituary
Richard “Dick” Lee Ward, age 79, loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away Wednesday, October 19, 2022. He was born January 21, 1943 in Muskegon to Ralph and Edna (Chandler) Ward. In 1970, Dick starting volunteering for the Norton Shores Fire Department and by 1975 held a full-time position, ultimately retiring in 2000 as Deputy Chief. On September 29, 1962, he married the love of his life, Sharon Lee Ortquist, in Muskegon. Dick was an avid outdoorsman and was a handyman who would help anyone that was in need. He enjoyed going on casino trips, was a prankster, loved food and any type of dessert, and he always put himself last and others first. But most importantly, he loved his family. Dick was known for many of his favorite sayings, including: “Don’t take any wooden nickels” and “Yumpin’ Yingers”. He was always a supportive father and grandfather and would always make a point to attend their sporting events and extracurricular activities. He will be missed by many. SURVIVORS include his wife of 60 years, Sharon; three children: Mark Ward, Denise (Bob) Thomas, and Steven (Cheryl) Ward all of Muskegon; 5 grandchildren: Corey (Nick) Thomas, Courtney Thomas, Derek (Jenn) McDaniel, Trevor (Shannon) McDaniel, and Gabrielle Ward; great-granddaughter, Matilda Nelund-McDaniel; brothers-in-law: Don Garrett of Nashville, MI and Ron Schmuck of Muskegon; sisters-in-law: Anita Ward, Carol Ward, and Jackie Martin all of Muskegon; many nieces and nephews. Dick was preceded in death by his parents; brothers: Larry, Dale, and Bob Ward; sisters: Delores Garrett and Arlene Schmuck; and brother-in-law, Charles Martin. According to his wishes, there will be no public services. If you would like to make a donation in Dick’s name, please consider Pound Buddies. Share memories with the family at their online Guest Book at www.sytsemafh.com Arrangements by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444 (231) 798-1100
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