Kenneth Eugene Ward, 91, died peacefully in Anacortes, Wash., Sept. 30, 2017. He was born Jan. 16, 1926, to Emanuel Johannes Ward and Iva Fern (Clark) Ward in Dallas, Iowa.
Ken served in the United States Army during World War II, stationed in Northern Italy. Although, originally trained in field artillery, his propensity to volunteer for additional training eventually resulted in his assignment to the position of motor sergeant. On his return from WWII, Ken studied for and received a private pilot’s license to fly single fixed wing aircraft.
He married Mary Elizabeth Christensen June 11, 1949, in Omaha, Neb., where they settled for several years before moving to rural Iowa and eventually, to Eastern Oregon. They remained happily married for 67 years until her death in 2016.
Ken loved farming and ranching and ran a successful cattle ranch in Klamath Falls, Ore., until his retirement in 1988, at which time he and Mary relocated to Lewis County, Wash. He also loved fishing, camping, whitewater rafting and spending time with his grandchildren. He was an avid skier and could be found at White Pass on the downhill ski slopes on a weekly basis, well into his 80’s. Ken was particularly known by family and friends for his curious and studious nature. He had a lifelong interest in alternative energy, studied biblical Greek on a daily basis and more recently acquired an interest in calculus and physics.
Ken was an active and devoted member of Peace Lutheran Church and never hesitated to dive into any building or yard maintenance project.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and wife, Mary.
Ken is survived by his brother, Corwin; four children and their spouses, Susan (Dick) Cook, Jim (Debbie) Ward, Andy (Beth) Ward and Kass (Ben) Roberts; numerous grandchildren; and great-grandchildren.
A graveside service was held Oct. 5, 2017, at Lone Hill Cemetery, where Ken will be interred alongside his beloved wife, Mary.
