In Loving Memory of Robert Joseph Ward
Robert J. Ward passed peacefully into Heaven on January 25, 2026. He was born on March 27, 1933, in Owosso, Michigan, to Anna and Joseph Wardzinski.
Robert was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 70 years, Norma J. Ward, the love of his life, who entered Heaven just weeks earlier on January 6, 2026. Their marriage was the foundation of a remarkable family and a lifelong partnership marked by devotion, loyalty, and deep love. Together, they built a home centered on commitment, kindness, and unwavering support for one another and their family and many friends.
Robert spent his career at General Motors Tool and Die, retiring as an Engineer in 1986. He took great pride in his work and was known for his steady presence, strong work ethic, and thoughtful approach to problem-solving.
He was a loving father to four sons: Douglas (Teri), Terry (Carol), Larry (Karen), and Bill (Barb). Nothing brought Robert more joy than his role as Dad and Grandpa. He was blessed with nine grandchildren—Jason (Beata), Julie (Peter), Amanda, Jennifer, Jacob (Shannon), AJ (Stephanie), Josh (Athena), Billy, and Jeremy—and ten great-grandchildren: Alana, Lincoln, Lucy, PJ, Maria, Lorena, Ava, Joshlyn, Charlotte, and Micah.
Robert had a true zest for life and a special gift for bringing people together. Family gatherings were his joy, and he rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his children and grandchildren at sporting events. Whether celebrating victories or offering quiet encouragement after a tough loss, he was always present, always proud.
Throughout his life, Robert formed deep and lasting relationships. He cherished his church families and friendships across Plymouth, Michigan; Kalkaska, Michigan; Marianna, Florida; and Williamston, Michigan. In every chapter of life, he remained the steady, connecting force—the binding tie that held relationships together with love, patience, and kindness.
Robert's life was a reflection of perseverance, humility, and quiet strength. His faith was a guiding force, and his life verse captured the way he faced life's challenges with confidence and trust:
"I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength."
— Philippians 4:13
Robert's life stands as a testimony to faith, family, and friendships. While we mourn his passing, we rejoice in the assurance that he is now fully healed, fully restored, and reunited with his beloved Norma in the presence of their Lord and Savior.
Our family looks forward to honoring the lives of Bob and Norma together at a graveside Veterans service this spring. Details will be shared as plans are finalized.
Robert J. Ward passed peacefully into Heaven on January 25, 2026. He was born on March 27, 1933, in Owosso, Michigan, to Anna and Joseph Wardzinski.
Robert was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 70 years, Norma J. Ward, the love of his life, who entered Heaven just weeks earlier on January 6, 2026. Their marriage was the foundation of a remarkable family and a lifelong partnership marked by devotion, loyalty, and deep love. Together, they built a home centered on commitment, kindness, and unwavering support for one another and their family and many friends.
Robert spent his career at General Motors Tool and Die, retiring as an Engineer in 1986. He took great pride in his work and was known for his steady presence, strong work ethic, and thoughtful approach to problem-solving.
He was a loving father to four sons: Douglas (Teri), Terry (Carol), Larry (Karen), and Bill (Barb). Nothing brought Robert more joy than his role as Dad and Grandpa. He was blessed with nine grandchildren—Jason (Beata), Julie (Peter), Amanda, Jennifer, Jacob (Shannon), AJ (Stephanie), Josh (Athena), Billy, and Jeremy—and ten great-grandchildren: Alana, Lincoln, Lucy, PJ, Maria, Lorena, Ava, Joshlyn, Charlotte, and Micah.
Robert had a true zest for life and a special gift for bringing people together. Family gatherings were his joy, and he rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his children and grandchildren at sporting events. Whether celebrating victories or offering quiet encouragement after a tough loss, he was always present, always proud.
Throughout his life, Robert formed deep and lasting relationships. He cherished his church families and friendships across Plymouth, Michigan; Kalkaska, Michigan; Marianna, Florida; and Williamston, Michigan. In every chapter of life, he remained the steady, connecting force—the binding tie that held relationships together with love, patience, and kindness.
Robert's life was a reflection of perseverance, humility, and quiet strength. His faith was a guiding force, and his life verse captured the way he faced life's challenges with confidence and trust:
"I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength."
— Philippians 4:13
Robert's life stands as a testimony to faith, family, and friendships. While we mourn his passing, we rejoice in the assurance that he is now fully healed, fully restored, and reunited with his beloved Norma in the presence of their Lord and Savior.
Our family looks forward to honoring the lives of Bob and Norma together at a graveside Veterans service this spring. Details will be shared as plans are finalized.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Robert Joseph Ward, please visit our flower store.
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