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BORN
1971
DIED
2018
James Ward Obituary
On March 17, 2018, my best friend, my husband of almost 21 years passed away.
J.D. Ward, born June 23, 1971 in Seattle. He was the proud father of our children; Markus Johan (19), Evan Emil (17), Sophia Kristine (14).
He is also survived by his father Dennis Ward, his mother Patti Ward, his brother Sean Ward, his uncle Mike Ward and many close cousins, nieces and a nephew.
J.D. was a true family man, rock for everyone and my anchor.
He was a man who loved watching his kids play sports, teaching them his love of dirt biking, and he enjoyed several attempts at hunting. If the Seahawks where on, you could bet he was watching somewhere.
J.D. started his fishing career at age 17 with his best friend, John Nes and never stopped chasing his dream to be captain. He took his last breath as the captain on the F/V Pacific Mariner.
Celebration of him will be on
May 4th at 3:00 p.m. at
Richmond Beach First Lutheran,
18354 8th Ave. NW, Shoreline 98177
Guest Book at www.Legacy.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Ward
Sponsored by The Family.
March 11, 2019
May God comfort strengthen your family during this time of deep sorrow. God will remember those who pass on in death because they are precious in his eyes. John 6:40.
Randy Hutchins
May 25, 2018
I knew the five of you would be a family forever. It is so sad that forever was so short. I am here for you anytime you need anything.
Linda & David Wales
May 25, 2018
J.D. was an incredible man with a great spirit and a transmittable laugh, we loved to be in hes company, and we should wish we could have had more times like the 2000 New Years-eave party in Norway. We remember J.D.'s expression when he set of the package of a 48 large rocket fireworks, and the other times we got to share with you, sadly it should have been many more of those moments, and we are blessed to have known J.D.
With our deepest sympathy and our Condolences to Monika, Marcus, Evan and Sophia Ward
Joyce Chester
May 25, 2018
Memories are real
Love is forever
Cherish that hug
Remember the kiss
Hold him in your heart
Talk often of those memories
Show love to those around
Grief and pain is hard
Time will not heal
If you dont deal
The loss and pain is surreal
Tears and ache will help
You smile again but....
Remembered you cried
His love will always show up
Through memories, family, and friends
Find a star in the sky that willmark
That twinkle he gives your heart
Love and hugs to our baseball and fishermen family!! ❤❤❤❤❤❤
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Jana Richardson
May 22, 2018
I met JD at Shorewood HS. He was one of the coolest & kindest guys in school. He was always helpful and there with a big smile or hug when you needed it most. Ill never forget his laugh. He was a stand up guy and those are hard to find. Life is so unfair... he was too young to go. Our deepest condolences.
Tina Henderson/Barden
May 20, 2018
Where do I begin to explain the friendship and love JD and I shared. Spent 4o Years of my life with him in it as my brother. Going through all stages of life together... grade school, being silly together in jr high school, and growing in to adults together in high school. Always looking out and protecting me. Even working together at Pizza Haven as teenagers,, what a blast. Always sharing stories with each other as the years went on while growing our own families. I will forever miss your laugh, genuine smile, bear hugs and the kiss on the forehead you would give me as we said until next time we can get together. Love to you always my dearest friend. Never going to be the same without you.
Lisa Monke
May 19, 2018
Monika and family... I didnt know JD well, we got to know your family when my son Josh and Evan played on the same ball team. I remember getting a chance to chat with JD and I was truly struck and his amazing personality! Clearly this was a man who loved life, loved his family fiercely and made the most out of every day! May your memories keep him alive in your life from now until you meet him again.
Oystein Boe
May 19, 2018
JD was a good man and it is obvious how much he was loved by his family.
Trina Poulsen
May 19, 2018
May your memories of JD comfort you when times weigh heavy on your heart! You picked a true gem Monika! We must remember our fingerprints dont fade from the lives we touch! JD loved deeply and left us all better for it! Love to you and the kids! ❤
Alice Wilburn
May 6, 2018
Monika, I am so sorry to learn of your loss of JD, my heart and prayers go out to you and your children. We lived down the street about 3 blocks and new JD an Sean since they were in grade school. They were the same ages of my two youngest sons, Michael and Daniel. They were always at my house, playing, having snacks, etc. My Michael still sees Sean very often. I couldn't believe it when Sean said JD had passed away, I just said "he was too young". I was sorry to miss the funeral, I had a doctor appointment, but I've been thinking of him every since I heard the news. Just can't believe it. I pray you and your children will find the strength to go on, however, hard it is. Call upon God and He will help you. Love and prayers to you all.
Monika, Donovyn and Declan Pfiefle
May 6, 2018
Monika, Marcus, Emil and Sophia,
We are so sorry for your loss! JD was one in a million and we know your hearts are broken. We will always remember JD with a smile. We love you and are here for you.
Ron, Alisa, and Brooke Jett
May 6, 2018
We were so blessed to have known such a fun, vibrant, and spirited man. JD will always be in our hearts as well as the Ward family. ❤
Stewart Christensen
May 5, 2018
I am so sorry to hear about James passing. Although I did not really know him, Monica was/is one of my best friends.
Stewart Christensen
Karin & Jim Bagnasco
May 4, 2018
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. Our thoughts are with you and your family.
Charles Hassa
May 4, 2018
It is so hard to say goodbye to one of the kindest, funniest, and most outstanding people out there! JD will always live in the hearts and thoughts of his family and friends. I will greatly miss you my friend.
Studioso
May 4, 2018
Beautiful celebration, great words spoken about a loved man.
Linda Mooney
May 4, 2018
JD was definitely one of the good ones. You can tell by all the Facebook photos that you have shared over the years how much he loved all of you. Monika, I think about you and the kids every day. I hope every day gets a little bit easier for you and just know that you are surrounded by love.
Linda
Carol and Doug Sheldon
May 4, 2018
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you in this difficult time. ❤
Kristin Sewell
May 4, 2018
Every time I saw or heard from JD, the first thing he would say was " It's your favorite person in the whole world!". He was right. No one brought the light and laughs like JD. His spirit will always remain as the inspiration on how to live life. He was a wonderful, supportive and loyal friend to Matt and I and terrific mentor to our boys. ❤ Love you all dearly Monika, Markus, Emil and Sophia❤
Marcie Hagan
May 4, 2018
Sending our thoughts and love to you Monika, Markus, Evan and Sophia ❤
Frank Myhre
May 3, 2018
So very, very sorry for your loss Monika, Markus, Emil and Sophia. I know no words can express what you are feeling. Sending love and hugs to you all!! ❤ Frank
Leila Smith
May 3, 2018
I'm glad I met J.D. and his family through the Stewarts. His fishing stories were often hilarious and entertaining. It's easy to see why he was loved by many. Thanks to J.D. And Monika for teaching me the word Skoal.
Emily Kristjanson
May 3, 2018
J. D. was a truly loving man. He loved his wife and family with all his being. We are honored to have known him in his short years. He had a loving and proud smile when you met him. He rests from his labors but will not be forgotten. Our love extends to Monika and their children. This is my second post but he was truly a great guy and I realize there are so many things to be said about him. We can carry on his legacy by supporting his beloved family. Hugs. Sibbie and Emily Kristjanson
Bobbie Evans
May 3, 2018
My heart breaks for you and your family. Im so sorry.
Bob & Bobbie Evans
Kurt Jastad
May 3, 2018
JD was the go big or go home guy!
Great family man. Best friend to everyone. Won't be the same without him but I know I'm happy I knew him. You will be forever missed.
Michele Amy
May 3, 2018
JD was one of the funniest, nicest guys I've ever known. His big hugs, big laugh and big smile lit up a room. My twins call him Pappa JD because he was like a second Dad to them. Our hearts are so sad we will miss him dearly. We love you and miss you JD! Monika, Markus, Emil and Sophia - we love you and are here for you. You know where to find us - anytime.
Nichole Sargent
May 3, 2018
Keeping you all in my prayers. While I didnt have the honor to know JD, I can easily see in your whole family what a loving presence he had. He was clearly a great man & will continue to be loved by many. So very sorry for your loss, Ward family.
Vanessa Maugatai
April 30, 2018
My condolences to the Ward family, prayers and thoughts, you will be missed, RIP JD.....
Marty Kiley
April 29, 2018
This is the saddest loss! My boys grew up across the street from JD and Sean and made many memories together. Their Mom and I took them to the first showing of Stars Wars downtown and waited in line for an hour. The hunt was on for Darth Vadar characters for Christmas after that movie!! All the Moms in the neighborhood watched the boys ride their Big Wheels up and down the block. 17 kids and mostly boys, made for a wonderful childhood. My heart is broken! I love you JD and I can't imagine how much you will be missed!!!
Mary P Bundrant
April 27, 2018
Oh Dear Monika.....my heart is deeply saddened for you and your family......JD was a happy, caring, kind gentle giant.....He loved you and your family in an extra special way....I am praying for you and your family each day....asking the Lord to comfort you....and to strengthen you. I will never forget JD.....such a "ray of Sunshine.".....my deepest heartfelt sympathy.....With love to you....Mary
Kristen Sirles
April 14, 2018
JD and Monika were my surrogate family. They had the relationship I aspired to have and JD was one of the best men I knew. Together they were a force and power couple. I can not express the sadness I feel for Monika, Markus, Emil and Sofia. The sadness is immeasurable. All I can say is that Heaven is a better place with JD there. All my love to you Monika. I miss you.
Evelyn Varne
April 14, 2018
How do you find the right words, with such a shocking loss. I remember JD being such an easy person to talk to and he always made you feel welcome. Monika and family, you are in my prayers.
La Nae & Damon
April 10, 2018
We alway looked forward to seeing JD's big smile and warm hugs every time he returned home. We will always remember the love and devotion he had for Monica and the kids. He had an amazing passion for life and it's adventures. RIP JD.... you will be greatly missed.
Madison Murray
April 8, 2018
I can't even begin to fathom your loss. J.D. was so much, to so many, but nothing ever rivaled him being a father to his kids or a husband to his wife. That much was obvious. I had the pleasure of working under Captain Ward these last few seasons and feel very honored to have done so. J.D. was a rare mix of quality traits that you don't often find all in one man. Moving forward, I will proudly take all that I learned from him with me and keep his undeniable spirit, attitude, and legacy at the forefront of my memories . With his early departure, comes heavy hearts and unanswered questions but without a doubt, his legend lives on. He will be greatly missed and remembered by all who were lucky enough to know him. I wish you nothing but fair winds and following seas in the foreseeable future and please don't forget that I'm ALWAYS available for ANY reason. Thank you so much for sharing him with us.
God Bless,
-Madison Murray
F/V Pacific Mariner
Karyn, Greg and Matt Heinekin
April 7, 2018
JD was an amazing dad, husband and friend. We were blessed to have known JD and to have been able to spend time with him and his lovely family! We will miss his laugh, and the good times! Our prayers and help will always be here for Monika, Markus, Evan, and Sophia! All our love, Karyn, Greg and Matt
Sean Dunlop
April 6, 2018
One of the nicest funniest guy ever,will miss you brother,my condolences to all family and friends
Emil Vinberg
April 5, 2018
Willed Be Missed.....
Grethe Mannes
April 5, 2018
In loving memory of a guy that always put a smile on my face :) JD u will be missed by everyone,The kindest and most loving guy I have ever known
Lisa Elliott
April 5, 2018
JD was one of the finest men I ever knew. Year after year he'd come back to Dutch and it was always with a smile and a light heart. A warm and genuine man who never tired of talking fondly of his wife and children. I admired him and always found him to be a man of honor. JD my friend, I miss ya.
Shirley Ryan
April 4, 2018
My deepest sympathy. Prayer to you and you kids!
Jan Newkirk
April 4, 2018
I'd known JD for close to 20 years, and did many tickets for him as a travel agent, and he always ALWAYS made me smile and talked so wonderfully about his family. He was one of my favorite guys in the fleet. He was amazing fisherman and friend who will be missed so very much. My thoughts and prayers to his family and so many friends who will miss him daily.RIP JD, we love you!
Julie Strmme
April 4, 2018
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
April 3, 2018
J.D. was a delight to be around. He was easygoing and full of such good humour. We will miss him.
Brenda Secor
April 3, 2018
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Ward Pierson
April 3, 2018
It was,such an honor to have been JD s God Father The world lost a great loving family man and friend the times we,had togather will go on forever
Mia Cooper
April 3, 2018
I'm so thankful to have called JD my cousin. He was always smiling and kept everyone around him laughing. You will be truly missed.
Sandra Prudnick-Holeman
April 2, 2018
Im so sorry!! Many prayers to you and your family!! He will be truly missed!!
Love Sandra and Collin Holeman. ❤
Emily Nes
April 2, 2018
In memory of the funniest, sweetest and most kind person I have ever known. You smile lit up the room.
Emily & Sibbie Kristjanson
April 2, 2018
J D was a friend of all. He was the best Dad to his children. A faithful husband. We counted him among our friends. Its a relationship that is referred to many times. You dont have to see them or talk to them often but when you meet, you continue your conversation from the last time. He will be missed in everyones life that knew him. He is at peace.
Ingerlise
April 2, 2018
I did not know James , but I do know his beautiful wife Monika , and I am so sorry for her and their childrens Loss .. I am praying for them , asking God to give them Strength and Peace ..Jesus is the Only anchor to hold on to and he will see you through . Love you Monika
John Nes
April 2, 2018
JD, I am so thankful I was able to have lunch and talk to you before your last trip out fishing, I am going to miss you dearly my friend and brother, thank you for all the good times we shared and always being there for me.
Shirley Ryan
April 2, 2018
In loving memory of a wonderful person.
Matt and Olivia Ross
April 2, 2018
Only met JD on a few occasions and we hit it off from the get go. The respect of two sailors talking about the Bering Sea. He told me how much respect he had for the Coast Guard and glad we were out there keeping an eye on him and his crew as well as all the other ships.
His daughter and my daughter played on the same travel fastpitch team last year.
When I knew JD was going to the tournament it made it so much more fun for the day and weekend.
RIP friend and Semper Paratus
Shannon and Jason Hill
April 2, 2018
JD was "that guy". The Rock, the funny one, the good friend, the amazing family man and the one you could always count on. JD gave a threatening few words to my now husband "If you hurt her, I will kill you." JD was the brother I never had and his family is my family. You are greatly missed JD. We love you. The Hill Gang.
Marty Kiley
April 1, 2018
JD grew up across the street from my family. He and his brother, Sean,, played almost daily with my boys of the same age. Their mother, Pat, and I became close friends and took the boys to many movies. Pat and I would sit in my driveway watching the boys run their Big Wheels up and down the block. Drove one neighbor crazy! JD had the face of an angel and was full of love and laughter. Sweet beyond words and full of life and adventure. When Star Wars came out, Pat and I made sure we were in line to get the boys inside for the first Seattle Showing. It broke my heart when they had to move. I missed them so much!! My heart is broken for his family and especially, Sean. Sean has done an incredible job of keeping in touch with me. I am sending prayers and love to his entire family. I am so very sorry!! Sad beyond words. Goodbye JD and Thank you for all the love and joy you brought into so many people's lives. I will never forget you. Love, Marty
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