Michael Ward

Dr. Michael Allen Ward, 78, passed away on April 18, 2025, in San Marcos, Texas. A dedicated professional, decorated military officer, and beloved family man, Michael led a life marked by service, integrity, and unwavering commitment to truth.

Born on April 6, 1947, in Cumberland, Maryland, Michael's early years laid the foundation for a lifetime of achievement. He pursued higher education with determination and excellence. In 1974, he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Towson University in Towson, Maryland. Driven by a passion for healthcare and public service, he went on to receive his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the University of Maryland Baltimore College of Dental Surgery in 1977. His commitment to advancing public health led him to earn a Master's in Public Health from Johns Hopkins University in 1985. He further specialized his expertise by completing a dental public health residency at the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor in 1988.

Michael's career was defined by both clinical excellence and academic leadership. During the height of the AIDS epidemic, he served with distinction at the Maryland State Health Department. His work during this critical time included being the chief contributor to a book on infection control-an essential resource that reflected his dedication to safeguarding public health. He also shared his knowledge as an associate professor at the University of Maryland Dental School, shaping future generations of dental professionals with his insight and experience.

Later in his career, Michael brought his skills and compassion to veterans as a dentist at the Amarillo Veterans Hospital in Amarillo, Texas-a role he held for eleven years. His work there exemplified his lifelong commitment to serving others.

Michael's sense of duty extended beyond civilian life into distinguished military service. At the height of the Vietnam War, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and became a helicopter gunship pilot-a role requiring courage and precision under pressure. After active duty, he continued flying with the Maryland National Guard before transitioning into the dental corps by resigning his warrant officer commission to accept a commissioned officer role. He ultimately retired from the Texas National Guard with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel-a testament to decades of honorable service.

Michael is survived by his devoted wife of 35 years, Patricia Shaffer; their son Austin Ward and Austin's fiancée Ashley Cashel of Richardson, Texas; his sister Deborah Breeden and her husband Scott Breeden of Herndon, Virginia; and Louise Whitehill-Ward and her husband John Whitehill-Ward of Tucson, Arizona.

Those who knew Michael remember him for his sharp wit and unflinching honesty-he spoke truthfully whether or not it was easy to hear. His sense of humor brought levity even during challenging times, while his deep love for family-especially for his son Austin-was evident in every aspect of his life.

Michael Allen Ward was an asset not only to the military and dental professions but also to everyone fortunate enough to know him personally or professionally. His legacy lives on through those he taught, served alongside, cared for as patients-and most profoundly-in those who loved him.

May his memory bring comfort and strength to all who mourn his passing.