Ronald Douglas Ward, 56, died on June 23, 2014 in Sandy, Utah after heroically battling colon cancer. He died at home in the tender and loving care of Susan, his wife of 34 years.
Ron was born on July 8, 1957 in Pomona, California. He was the 4th child of Marion Dean Ward and Barbara Haynie Ward. He attended Los Altos High School in Hacienda Heights, California. He served a mission in the Canada Halifax Mission. He married Susan Stone in the Salt Lake Temple. He was a co-owner of Ward's Discount Carpet in Sandy, Utah.
Ron was preceded in death by his sister, Gloria Denise Ward and granddaughter Lila Alesha Ward. He is survived by his parents, his wife, his daughter, Brooke Vance (Sean) and his son Aaron Ward (Brigitte). He is also survived by his 4 grandchildren, Shaun and Zachary Ward and Ryan and Joshlyn Bird. Ron is also survived by 6 siblings, Ken Ward (Jelaire), Dennis Ward (Debra), Terrie Hovey (Roger), Nathan Ward (Kambria), Kathryn Rasmuson (Eric) and Shelly Ward and by numerous family members, friends and neighbors.
Ron had a strong testimony of the Savior, Jesus Christ and followed His example by faithfully serving in various callings in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints throughout his life.
Ron was a man of honest intent and a loving heart whose daily actions conformed to principles of integrity. He was truly a man without guile. Ron approached life with a sunny disposition, a hopeful outlook and a gentle demeanor. He was patient and aware of others even through his physical suffering. Ron loved to serve. He felt great joy in helping others to know that God loves them. His life was filled with love and laughter. He lifted those around him and filled them with a desire to be better through his gentle influence and kind example.
Ron loved to garden and always had a beautiful yard with roses. He loved to cook and spend time with family and friends. Ron and Susan's home has been an oasis for many. He loved books, music, history, travel and his country but most of all he loved spending time with his beloved wife Susan.
Ron worked hard and had a grateful heart. He took joy in the simple things of life and was a true friend to people at work, home, church and in every day interactions. He had charity in his heart and the gospel of Jesus Christ in his soul. We miss him and want to live our lives so that we will be with him again. We are grateful for the blessing of the Atonement and that families are eternal.
Friends and family are invited to attend a funeral service on Saturday, June 28, 2014 at 11:00 am at the Crescent Ridge Stake Center, 1265E 11000S, Sandy, Utah. There will be a viewing on Friday, June 27, 2014 from 6-8:00pm at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 E 10600 S., Sandy and from 9:30-10:30 prior to the service at the Stake Center.
A Graveside service is to follow funeral at Larkin Sunset Gardens Cemetery.
If you would like to help with Ron's medical and funeral expenses you may donate to the Ron Ward Medical Trust Fund at Central Bank in the name of Barbara H. Ward.
