Search by Name

Search by Name

Gerald "Jerry" Ward

Gerald Ward Obituary

Gerald "Jerry" Ward

Gerald "Jerry" Ward passed away peacefully early Monday morning, March 23, 2009 at his home in Arcata, CA.

Jerry was born on February 9, 1928 in Eureka, CA. He graduated from Fieldbrook Grammar School and Arcata High School, "Class of 1945." While at Arcata High, he played basketball, baseball and was Student Body President in 1944. Jerry played baseball for the Humboldt Crabs and the Blue Lake Chicks in the Redwood League. He was a rabid fan of the San Francisco 49er’s and the New York Yankees. Jerry was a Charter Member of the Arcata Moose Lodge #208, which is now located in McKinleyville, CA and was also a member of the Moose Legion #226.

Jerry is survived by his children: Mark Ritchie (and wife Susie) of Woodburn, OR, Bruce Ward (and wife Elizabeth) of Corning, CA, Lisa Bartow of Hamilton, MT, Brenda Bertain of Korbel and Dale Ward of Eureka, CA; his 11 grandchildren: Jerry, Cassidy, Mikkaila, Thomas, Alexandra, Jesse, David, Shannon, Eric, Joseph, Rebbeca; his 7 great grandchildren: Timmothy, Brieanna, Sierra, Hanna, Sam, Lucas and Dustin.

Jerry was preceded in death by his adored wife, Gay, in 2003 and his grandson Steven.

At Jerry’s request, no public services will be held.

Please sign the guestbook online at www.times-standard.com, click on obituaries.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Times-Standard on Mar. 24, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Gerald Ward

Not sure what to say?





Francie Murphy Meng

March 28, 2009

I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. I have such fond memories of both Jerry and Gay, and the entire family. I grieve with you, and my prayers are with you all.

Susan Egan

March 28, 2009

My heart goes out to you Brenda. I didn't know your dad, but I have seen the love you have for him in your eyes. The way you stayed with him and your mom in there last months, weeks, and days. My heart goes out to you big time. Much love to you and your loved ones

Larry Johnson

March 25, 2009

Sorry for your loss......Manager, Blue Lake Chicks

Karen Schladweiler

March 25, 2009

We are very sorry to hear about Jerry. Another family member is gone.
Although we were not close, I did think of him often.
Our thoughts are with the family.

Debbie Bandy

March 24, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with Brenda, Joe and to Jerry's entire family. He was a dear friend to my father for many years Brian "Pat" Murphy. And his grandson Joe was a childhood friend of my sons Nate "Pope" Sonberg. God Bless All of You From All of Our Family.

Craig Cousins

March 24, 2009

Worked with Jerry in the 70's on the bucking saw at L.P. Plywood, great guy to work with. Last saw him at the Mattole Grange Bar-b-Que about 5 years ago. Sorry for your loss.

Merl Ward

March 24, 2009

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Iona Ross

March 24, 2009

I always admired Jerry for his devotion to his wife and family. He was always so up beat. My sympathy goes to his family.Iona Ross

Lois Rogers

March 24, 2009

Jerry was a prince of a guy. My thoughts are with you at this time.

Showing 1 - 9 of 9 results

Make a Donation
in Gerald Ward's name

Memorial Events
for Gerald Ward

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Gerald's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Gerald Ward's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more