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Alpharetta, Georgia

Walton WARD Obituary

Family-Placed Death Notice

WARD, Walton Walton Matthew Ward, age 23, formerly of Alpharetta, passed away October 23, 2012. He was born November 23, 1988 in Tucson, AZ and moved to Alpharetta in 1989. Walton was a graduate of Independence High School and was studying Nutritional Science at Diablo Valley University, CA. He was known for his magnetic personality, strong will and ambition and was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Ann & Allan Ward. He is survived by his father, Walton L. Ward; mother, Julie A. Kvinge; sister, Lauren E. Ward; half-sisters, Tamera K. Galvin and Staci A. Ward; maternal grandparents, Wilma & Roy B. Ledbetter; uncle & aunt, Allan & Marie Ward, Jr.; honorary aunt, Colleen H. Callihan and other extended family. Memorial services will be held 1:00PM, November 10, 2012 at SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society, 2260 Old Milton Pkwy., Alpharetta, GA 30009. Please express condolences at www.southcare.us. Arrangements by SouthCare Cremation & Funeral Society in Alpharetta. (678) 735-5500.

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Published by Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Nov. 8, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Walton WARD

70 Entries

Alex C

September 15, 2015

Walton,
I randomly saw Peter today at lunch. It's been over ten years since I saw him last, probably more. We talked for a minute and reminisced of our time in Windward and how we both missed my old house there. Of course I said, "Me you and Walton had the best times there" how could I forget those? He then told me what happened and I couldn't believe it. I wanted to say that I'll never forget you and that I still think about you always hoping you're doing well.

May 19, 2015

Missing you Walton!

November 23, 2013

Twenty five years ago today was one of 4 days that were the bests of my life! You were born and brought so much joy and pride to me throughout your life! I relished watching you excel in a variety of sports--LL baseball where all players chased the ball in mass, youth basketball was chaotic, roller / ice hockey and those stinky locker rooms and the tabasco incident, youth football when you hurt your but returned the next play, youth soccer when you hurt your shoulder but we sneaked you back in the game to score the winning goal, the golf lessons and those laser drives, the trips to the trout pond and lately your dedication to Muay Thai! I remember your interest in daring transportation ventures--trikes, bikes, big wheels, scooters and motorized skate boards--the all had to be the fastest!! Your cars were the fastest, the hotest and the loudest from the BMW and the Camero!I remember your favorite foods-steak, grilled swordfish, Mamaw's chow mein, sushi, crab legs, Florida grapefruit (4 at a setting) and Ruby Tuesday's salad (overflowing with dressing) and ribs! I treasure those simple memories and think of you so many times each day. I greatly admire your intelligence, personal strength, and will to follow your dreams. I am impressed with the loyalty and love of your many friends and family! I only regret we do not have the opportunity to build on the few joys I have mentioned. I do not understand the reasons why . I do value and appreciate the time we did have together. I am so very proud to be your Dad but I miss you so very much!!

Love always,
Dad

November 4, 2013

Son, now a year later and I do not understand anything but my love for you is forever and unconditional ! I trust the Lord to give you comfort and peace ! Dad

Staci

February 9, 2013

Thinking of you tonight.

Staci Ward

January 13, 2013

Miss you everyday, Walton.

Staci Ward

January 13, 2013

Staci Ward

January 13, 2013

Staci Ward

January 13, 2013

Staci Ward

January 13, 2013

Cousin Mandy & Steve's Wedding

Staci Ward

January 13, 2013

Tamera and I trying to get you to dance...

Staci Ward

January 13, 2013

Visiting Staci in Indianapolis

Staci Ward

January 13, 2013

Staci Ward

January 13, 2013

Soccer Days...

Staci Ward

January 13, 2013

Staci Ward

December 25, 2012

"Merry Christmas, Walton... Dad, Lauren & I (and your Mom in spirit) started Christmas dinner with a toast in your honor,...wishing you were right next to us. You were with us in our hearts and on our minds. I love you & miss you. Merry Christmas little brother. Sending you love through the stars."

December 3, 2012

WALTON, I, too have been putting off leaving a message for you and your family in your guestbook. I DID NOT forget your birthday, BEN and I thought about you the entire day as we have every day since you have been gone. You were like a son to me and a brother to Ben and Ali. The Griggs family will never forget you and even though you are gone from our sight, you will Never be gone from our thoughts and heart. It is so hard to believe you wont be coming over to our house again to hang out, eat dinner, listen to another one of my lectures, or just be Ben's best bud. Rest in peace my dear, snd we will see you again someday. We love you and miss you terribly. Ms. Griggs

Shane O'Berry

November 25, 2012

Walton, We went our separate ways in life, but it's impossible to think about growing up in Alpharetta without a memory involving you popping into my head. Like most who posted here we were childhood homies, neighbors, and someone I will never forget. I hope your ambitious soul pushes on with the same incredible energy you lived you life with, and you know that your friends and family always keep you with us in our memories.

November 24, 2012

Staci Ward

November 24, 2012

Walton, my heart is broken. Today is both your 24th birthday and the one month anniversary of us officially losing you. None of us can make any sense of this. I have to believe that the Universe needed your spirit more than we did...for a greater purpose...that we aren't capable of understanding. Today, on your 24th birthday, I have been celebrating your life one minute then mourning your loss in the next. I remember the day you were born. I remember holding you as a newborn and smelling that sweet baby powder smell when I kissed the top of your head. I can remember you as a tiny 3-year-old with a head full of bright, blond curly hair and a devilish little grin. I remember one time when I went with Dad to pick you up from Day Care and seeing your face light up the whole room when you saw him. I will never forget taking you and Lauren to Cedar Point Amusement Park in Sandusky, Ohio. That trip will always be how I see and remember you in my head and in my heart. You were so spirited and full of life. You were fearless to ride the tallest rollercoaster in the world at that time...Over and over. Walton, you lived your life with such spirit. You truly made a huge impact on all the lives who were blessed enough to have known you. I still don't understand and I still can't believe this is real but I am holding on tightly to the belief that you were called so early because they saw the goodness in you and the impact you could have for the greater good. Walton, I love you very much and will miss you here every day of my life. I promise to try and live up to your standards in living life to the fullest. And I promise to make every day count. Walton, I'll be looking for you in every rainbow, in every sunset and in every beautiful star filled sky I see. Happy Birthday, little brother. Thank you so much for being in my life. I love you, Staci

Staci Ward

November 24, 2012

Walton, It's 11:59 on your 24th birthday. 1 minute left to wish you Happy Birthday and that I love you with all my heart.

Peg and Ed Kilfeather

November 23, 2012

After reading Lauren's reflection of you, words are difficult to come by...so we'll just say "Happy Birthday" Walton.

Micah mike w

November 23, 2012

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! Walton Ward, where to even start I haven't the slightest. A brother and a bestfriend, so many good times we have shared in the past. I spoke with you not terribly too long ago, about hanging out and catching up at your next Ga visit. I think about you every day and ask God why you? This is something that is never supposed to happen to you, you did not deserve this.
I remember all of the crazy stupid things we did while trying to mature. Playin checkers with orange peels for sack lunchs LOL AHHTIIII AHHTIIII NAHHNAHH!!! No one know what the hell that means but us. True brothers to center of our souls. Im sorry I didn't make it to your memorial, that was my decision that was very hard to make.. I wouldn't have been able to hold myself together and the atmosphere of people from our pass wouldn't have helped any. Im sorry I wasn't with you that night. I have replayed every event that took place, over and over. Makes no sence bro ... None. All I can pray is that your case will NEVER go cold. The whole story is wack and doesn't fit Walt, you were not alone that night. I love you and I keep your family in my prayers every night. See you later man

Lauren Ward

November 22, 2012

I have been putting off writing in this guestbook, along with putting off every other thing that makes it even more real that you're actually gone. I mean, what is there really to say? No words are good enough. You have always been so hard to put into words anyway, no adjective can fully describe or exclude you. When people who didn't know you would ask me what you were like, I would always end up laughing and telling them that they had to meet you. Here's best I can do with adjectives: extraordinary athlete, absolutely hilarious, incredibly smart, driven, and determined, ridiculously frustrating and stubborn all while being the kind, compassionate person you were. That still doesn't even come close. You were just one of a kind, although that sounds so generic. I take some comfort in knowing that every day for the 23 years that we had you here, you were truly alive. You were not just existing, like many of us. You lived your life to your own standards and you didn't compromise about what you wanted. You went above and beyond for what you loved, and saw anything negative as just what you had to deal with to get where you wanted to be. I admire the way you lived your life. You didn't fear judgement, consequences.. actually, you weren't really afraid of much of anything. I can only hope you didn't fear death, but I don't think we ever had that conversation because at 23 it should have been irrelevant. I can't believe you're really gone, and I can't understand why it had to be you. You didn't deserve this, you had so much to live for and so much you could have done with your life. There are so many things I wish I could have said to you, but I guess life doesn't give us do-overs. I miss hanging out with you and just talking.. I keep having one sided conversations with you in my head and hoping you somehow can hear me.. even though you would probably laugh and tell me I'm crazy. It sucks here without you. Even though you've been 'gone' from GA for years, the finality of knowing you aren't ever coming back is so hard to handle. I just want you to come back and somehow have to realize that you never will. Walton, I am so proud of you, and so proud to be your sister. I love you so much and I look forward to the day when I can see you again, and will miss you until then.

Michael Ripma

November 21, 2012

There hasnt been a day thats gone by without me hurting that your gone I just cant beleive it yet. I remember meeting you in 3rd grade at Lake Windward and every since then we have been great friends there is just to many memories to fit on this page. If i want anyone looking down on us from up above it is you Because I know you will definatly keep us safe. God has a plan and I cant wait to see you again. There will Never be another Walton Ward I love you brother and you will be missed so much....

Carter Vansant

November 17, 2012

Walt, Im going to miss you bro. I will hold with me all the many memories we have together and keep your strength with me forever. You were and always will be a huge inspiration to me. Ill never forget all the laughs and good times we had growing up together. I still cant believe this happened to you but I know your in a better place. I remember when we would say that we were going to grow old and still be friends and how funny it would be for us to be old men talking about all the crazy stuff we did when we were younger... I going to miss that man but I guess God had a different plan for your life. I will definitely tell my kids about my good friend Walt and what an awesome life we had growing up. Ill never forget you bro. Love you man. Carter

November 17, 2012

im always gonna miss you walton, roller hockey days ahaha... shine on

Olivia Runyan

November 17, 2012

Walton I can't believe you are really gone :-( my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I hope they find answers for you soon.

Alexander Rios

November 17, 2012

Sorry I couldn't make it the other weekend buddy. Your a blessing to this world and a natural born leader. You keep it ok? Ill come visit you soon. Watching after your family n loved ones is your 24/7 job. You still are living...

November 11, 2012

This photo was taken the first day Walton moved to CA. He is seen here with Nick Carter (formally of Alpharetta) and a CA friend Rick Tyren.

November 11, 2012

Nicko Kostopoulos

November 10, 2012

To Walt's family I am extremely sorry for you loss. I didn't know Walt very well but I do remember him being a great training partner and friendly personality.

Chris Zollman

November 10, 2012

Poem from Act of Valor:
“So live your life that the fear of death can never enter your heart. Trouble no one about their religion; respect others in their view, and demand that they respect yours. Love your life, perfect your life, beautify all things in your life. Seek to make your life long and its purpose in the service of your people.

When it comes your time to die, be not like those whose hearts are filled with the fear of death, so that when their time comes they weep and pray for a little more time to live their lives over again in a different way. Sing your death song and die like a hero going home.”

~ Tecumseh

Peggy and Brian Smith

November 10, 2012

Walt and Julie We are so sorry for your loss our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Emily Tokarz

November 10, 2012

Walt,its so sad to think your gone. You have changed so many lives and influenced many you wouldn't even imagine.you are such a strong person,a fighter,and stood up for what you believed in. I pray God is with your family and loved ones today and for eternity. We'll be missing you so much down here,Please keep looking out for us from above. God was ready for you Walt! so keep doing amazing things up there. Love you

Jill Jones

November 10, 2012

Our prayers go out to Walton's family. We are very sorry for your loss.

spencer gregory

November 10, 2012

I will always miss you bro and i will never forget the awesome times we had together and i'm so happy that the last time we spoke was filled with happiness and remembering the fun times we had together which we some of the best times of my life because you were so much fun to be around. You will be missed by so many people, family and friends and my thoughts are with your family Lauren Ward and Julie A Kvinge I really hope you guys get some answers soon!

Daniel Pascoe

November 10, 2012

Walton my brother! Through thick and thin, we always had good times. We always had different views on things but we gleaned advice from each other, learned martial arts and grappling from each other. We hung out nd kicked it alot! I miss you brother! Always and forever in our hearts here in California! Love ya bro! See you soon bro!

Walton...just being natural and comfortable as always

Julie Kvinge

November 10, 2012

What a handsome guy!

Julie Kvinge

November 10, 2012

Daniel pascoe

November 10, 2012

Walton, oh man, a mess you never had. All the times we hung out and stayed out of trouble, maybe sometimes got into some. Haha forever in my heart brother! We always had each others back. See you soon brother!

Stephanie (Breen) Allen

November 9, 2012

Walton,

After being attached to your sister's hip for so many years I got to know you too. We know you are safe, and all your family needs now is answers. I pray those answers come soon. I love you Lauren and thinking about you and the rest of your family every single day! Love, Steph

Angel Fortes

November 9, 2012

Walton,

May you always be remembered in the hearts and minds of those you crossed paths. May your strength and determination guide your mother and siblings. And, may you remain a constant memory in all those lives you touched.

Love,
Ms. Angel

Kevin Ross

November 9, 2012

I'm so grateful to have been around you for a bit. You were always smiling and full of life, always giving me praise and telling me how I inspired you, it really meant a lot to me. You're gone way to soon, as so many of my friends have been, it just reminds me to keep going after what I love for those that can't. Thanks for being a friend to me brotha. See you soon

Lauren Dieringer

November 9, 2012

Walton Matthew,
It's hard to put into words how truly amazing you were. Full of life, could make anyone laugh, had the heart of gold, and everyone loved you. I think back on my childhood, the majority of my memories include you, and I am so lucky and so grateful for that. You were like the brother I never had, and my family just adored you. My heart continuously aches knowing you're gone. I know that you're in a better place. Your family is, and always will be, in my prayers. I love you Walton Matthew! You will never be forgotten.

"Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die."
-Mary Elizabeth Frye

Patrick Hughes

November 9, 2012

It is hard to find the words to write something about someone you can not believe is gone. I have known Walton for a long time and have many memories with him. Each memory I have with him has a special place in my heart. Walton was a man who was not afraid of anything and went after everything he ever wanted. Some men in this world of ours have regrets Walton had no regrets. He learned and grew from every decision he made and only looked forward to the future and built a foundation for his future of friends and loved ones which he held in the highest regard. Walton was always the person to be first to come help you when you were in need or give you the shirt off his back if it meant you would be smiling. The memories I will hold closest to my heart are those with Walton, Fred and myself. I will always remember Walton with a smile on his face and laugh trying to get out from behind that grin. Walton's laugh would fill the room and was one of a kind just like he was. I miss Walton so bad and am glad I had him in my life for as long as I did because he truly made it better. I love you brother and will always remember you and never let your memory go.
Patrick

Chris Zollman

November 9, 2012

Walton, we had some great times. I remember riding around in the camero having a blast. Please watch over us. You will be truly be missed.

Christele Yacovella

November 9, 2012

Walton, we are all shocked and filled with sadness. I can't imagine the pain your family is feeling right now. You were such a sweet boy in school. We may not of hung out a lot, but you were always so nice and my mom just loves you!! You will truly be missed by many. Watch over us always. RIP buddy

Sarah Stephenson

November 9, 2012

Walt we had some great times I will miss you! Never got to come visit Cali with you! I know ur in a better place. May you rest in peace. You will always be remembered for your good heart and strength. You were a great man. Love you Walt

November 9, 2012

Lauren & Family, please know you are in my thoughts everyday. We love you Lauren. Peace, Love and Blessings. Jamie Montana

Watching Muay Thai Outdoors in S.F.

David Johnson

November 9, 2012

This was a GREAT day!

David Johnson

November 9, 2012

I still have your number in my phone, along with my Moms. A season, a reason, a lifetime... You will shine in this heart of mine.

Sarah D'Alelio

November 9, 2012

Pumpkin. I'll always remember you as the enthusiastic kid with the permanent smile. And such an athlete. It's a shame we didn't get to see where your kickboxing career would have gone. No doubt you would have went places.

Walton with his friend Dan

Julie Kvinge

November 9, 2012

Walton "Matt" Ward at the CSA Gym

Julie Kvinge

November 9, 2012

Mom and Walton in San Francisco

Julie Kvinge

November 9, 2012

Beautiful Megan and Walton before High School Prom

Julie Kvinge

November 9, 2012

Christmas in Indiana

Julie Kvinge

November 9, 2012

Megan and Walton High School Sweeties

Julie Kvinge

November 9, 2012

Jonny Hill

November 8, 2012

Reast in peace Walton. Ill never forget the good times we had

Colleen Callihan

November 8, 2012

Walton, when you were little, we all called you "Buddy". It was the perfect nickname for you. I could hardly turn around without bumping into you because you always wanted to be close, to be a part of whatever was going on. You had a grin that could melt my heart! It was an honor and a privilege to be a part of your young life. You were my first baby boy and I loved you beyond words. My son is named Matthew after you. You will never be forgotten by the Callihans or the Hodgsons. Rest in Peace my sweet friend. We love you.

Beth Kean

November 8, 2012

Julie, I pray you will find peace & answers.

Ben Griggs

November 8, 2012

Walt, I can't believe your gone. You were the brother I never had. I never imagined that this would have happened to you. You were such a strong and good hearted person and you did not deserve this at all. We had so many awesome times growing up together. In fact we had just had a long conversation about it that Friday. We just laughed and reminisced on the crazy times. We went through so much together and im just devastated your gone. I thought we were going to grow old and have families together, our kids hanging out and doing the things we did when we were growing up. Unfortunately you were taken from us at such a young age. I will never forget you Walton, you will always have a place in my heart! I love you man!

My thoughts go out to the family. Im so sorry for your loss.

Our handsome man!

Julie Kvinge

November 8, 2012

Roy Ledbetter

November 8, 2012

From your Grandpa with love -

Walton there are no words that can truly express my feelings. I loved you and I remember caring for you as a young baby and enjoying the times we spent together as you became a young man. I think about the roller hockey, ice hockey, and soccer games I got to attend and was always so proud to be your Grandpa.

All my love,
Grandpa

Nancy Ahlrichs

November 8, 2012

I did not know Walton, but I know he was loved and will be missed. May his family and friends find some peace knowing that he has no pain. He will always be in your hearts.

Julie Kvinge

November 8, 2012

Some thoughts to you Walton "Matt" Ward from your Mom:

Sending prayers from my heart to yours -

Our family and your friends are devastated by the loss of you, our beloved son, Lauren's brother, and such a special young man and friend too so many!

Walton "Matt", continuing on without you is hard and it hurts, I have feelings of being alone, being out to drift, with no answers in sight. I ask why you and why our family. My heart hurts and at times I feel like I cannot go on………. I draw my strength from you honey, you are my hero!

You lived your life knowing, you would never have to ask in your old age “What if.” I respect you for not fearing putting it all on the line. I know there are few like you, and I am proud to be your “Momma.”

There is so much more I should have said to you when I had the opportunity. I will carry our memories in my heart always. The pain of losing you is unbearable, please know I am searching for answers and will not stop my love.

All my love too you honey,
Love Momma

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