James D. Ward

Ward, James D. Bay City, Michigan Our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend passed away peacefully Tuesday, January 1, 2013 at the age of 63 years at Covenant Health Care - Cooper in Saginaw, Michigan. The son of the late Wilson and Shirley (Smith) Ward was born January 16, 1949 in Bay City and has resided here all of his life. He enjoyed boating, riding his motorcycle, golfing, but most of all spending time with his family, friends, his life long buddies that he considered his brothers and especially his beautiful grandchildren. Jim retired from the State of Michigan after thirty three years of service and was a member of the B.P.O.E. Lodge # 88. On August 2, 1969 he married the former Mary A. Boling and she survives his passing along with two children; Jeff and Loria Ward and Wendy Felton, five grandchildren; Lydia, Elizabeth, Emily, A.J. and Katherine, three sisters and one brother-in-law; Susan Ward, Valerie Kegley and Amy and Gary Periard. His mother-in-law; Joyce Boling, two sisters -in-law and their spouses; Barbara and David Jenkins and Julie and Roy Gavit, several aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins and many special friends. He was preceded in death by one brother-in-law; Jeff Kegley. The family would like to thank the caring medical staff who have been involved in Jim's health care. In addition the 3rd floor nurses and staff at Covenant for their kind and compassionate care they extended to Jim and his entire family during his illness. A Celebration of his life will take place Saturday, January 12, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. at the Gephart Funeral Home, Inc. Officiating will be Sr. Mary Epple R.S.M. At the request of Jim, Cremation has taken place. The family will be present at the funeral home on Saturday to greet family and friends from 10:00 a.m. and until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers memorial cards will be available for Camp Fish Tales.