Obituary: John Ward

John was the third of four children, an adventurous child growing up in Odell. The family transferred in and out of Odell with John’s father in the U.S. Army. Much of their growing up took the Wards to Alaska, which was enjoyed by John. He continued living between Alaska and Hood River for most of his life.

After graduating from Wy’east High School in 1967, John traveled to Alaska for employment. The work supported his love for drag racing here in the Columbia Gorge. He settled in Odell with his young family to become the owner of a grocery store and butcher shop. He continued as an entrepreneur, owning his own log truck, satellite dish installation business, and electronic store with video rentals. John worked hard to cultivate his land on Gilhouley (purchased from his grandfather) to raise farm animals and grow cherries. 

John made opportunities to continue life in Alaska. John moved with his young family to Nome to be near his parents. Then, John moved to Juneau, near his brother, where he ran his boat for charters and enjoyed spending time with his nephew, Shane, as his crewmember. John’s fondest mornings are having coffee on the back deck of his boat while watching wildlife on the beaches and water in Southeast Alaska. Later in life, John moved near his oldest daughter, Sheila, to live in Craig, Alaska. He and his wife Penny developed a community there and continue to keep in touch with friends from that special place. 

John’s largest joy was raising his daughters and spending family time fishing, camping, and enjoying the roller-coaster rides at Disneyland. Family was essential to John.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother (Ron Ward) and sister (Nancy Steele). He is survived by his sister, Barb Mathis (Al); his wife, Penny Ward; two daughters, Sheila Beardsley (Mark), and Cathie Ward; two grandchildren, Alexis Ward and Dylan Castilla, and one great-grandchild, Blake Lynn. 

John, Dad, Papa, we love you. We miss you. You were a wonderful person to your family and friends!

Many people were a friend to John. We hope you will join us for a celebration of his life on Jan. 27 at 10 a.m. at the Rockford Grange, 4262 Barrett Drive, Hood River, Ore.