Trenton Ward

It is with our greatest love and deepest sorrow that we announce the passing of Trenton Ward on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at his home in Stow, Ohio. He was surrounded by those he treasured the most, his family.

Trenton Merritte Ward, age 21, was born on July 9, 2003 in Fremont OH. From that day forward, he would bring a joyful light to everyone he crossed paths with. He was a beloved son, brother, friend, and most recently, uncle (which was his favorite and most proud role yet).

Known for his ability to overcome adversity, Trenton's early years were a blend of finding his voice and embracing the joys of childhood. From an early age, he had a natural charisma and loved to entertain - whether it was performing magic tricks, solving Rubik's cubes, or entertaining us in the pool with wild jumps from the diving board. Even as a young boy, he had a keen sense of order; always keeping his room neat and tidy. One Christmas, he even asked for his own vacuum cleaner for his room - 'one that really sucked' - so he could take care of his space exactly the way he wanted.

Throughout his middle and highschool years, Trenton participated in many sports and activities. He put in countless hours of hard work and showed heart in cross country, swim, track, pole vault, and playing percussion in the marching band. The brightest light in any room, Trenton's charming and mischievous smile is fondly recalled by coaches, friends, and teachers alike. Ever the comedian, through the good days and the difficult, Trenton was never short on effort to make someone's day through humor. Described as a positive, inclusive teammate, Trenton was known for his tenacity toward achieving his goals while possessing an incredible ability to bounce back from a meet or practice that didn't go the way he would have liked, a quality that would carry him through to adulthood when faced with his fight against cancer.

After graduating from Fremont Ross High School in 2021, Trenton went on to study at the University of Akron, making meaningful friendships along the way; friendships that literally physically surrounded him with love until his death. Sentiments from a lifetime of beloved friends echo that he was profoundly loved and a beacon of light in the lives of those who knew him; caring, funny, kind, and endlessly considerate. His amazing spirit and unwavering positivity made him a friend like no other, someone who could brighten any room with his laughter and warmth. Always down for a hug, he had a way of making everyone feel like they truly mattered, making sure they knew that they meant something to someone. His courage and compassion touched each of his friends in a unique and special way, leaving a lasting impact that will be treasured forever.

In September of 2023, Trenton was diagnosed with Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumor (DSRCT), a rare soft tissue sarcoma that has affected one in one billion people worldwide since it was first identified 1989. As noted by a dear family friend, this one- in-a-billion cancer happened to a one- in-a-billion guy. Throughout his aggressive treatment regimen, Trenton continuously demonstrated courage and resilience; when one treatment didn't provide a desired outcome, he pushed through to the next with the hopes that his experience would benefit another cancer patient down the line. He never wanted any part of his journey to be in vain.

Committed to quality time with his family and through the efforts of his loving mother, Trenton was able to enjoy several special trips and activities including cooking classes, a Florida beach vacation to celebrate his 21st birthday, a family cabin getaway, and spending Thanksgiving in the Woods. The most recent excursion being an adventure to Hogwarts at Universal Studios Orlando in February of this year, where Trenton indulged in all things Harry Potter, seafood boils, and playful antics on (a very helpful) zippy scooter. His favorite experience was traveling to New Jersey with his Mother, Eric, and brother, Braden, to meet comedian Matt Rife and enjoy his show together.

Trenton believed in living each day to the fullest, in doing what made him happy, and in letting go of what didn't. He encouraged others to be true to themselves, to take chances, and to never be afraid of their emotions. He had a way of making even the heaviest moments lighter, always finding a way to sneak in laughter.

Whether through a joke, a dance, a smile, or a simple reminder that it was okay to feel your feelings, he made sure the people around him knew they weren't alone. He lived with incredible authenticity.

Trenton's legacy of light will live on through his passion for helping others. On trips in the car, he would often notice the colorlessness of dilapidated buildings and envisioned commissioning artists to create vibrant murals in run-down areas. He dreamed of restoring them with color to give a sense of pride and beauty; he had a sensitivity for the unhoused and considered ways of being able to serve them. In his honor, his mother, Alissa, hopes to bring his vision to life through the creation of a nonprofit organization, allowing others to join together through the acts of service that Trenton so lovingly desired to make happen.

Trenton is survived by: his parents: Alissa and Eric Fawcett, Chris and Laura Ward; siblings: Braden (Olivia), Collin, and Landon; niece: Wyatt. He was preceded in death by grandparents: David Brickner, Larry Paul, and Merritte Ward

As a final wish, Trenton selflessly donated his body to The Cleveland Clinic for research and education in hopes of improving treatments and bettering outcomes for others.

Out of respect for Trenton's wishes, there will be no formal visitation or services. A burial will be held at a later date on the beautiful grounds of Lake View Cemetery in Cleveland, OH. He would be delighted to know that you stopped for a quick visit and a peaceful walk if you are ever in the Cleveland area.

We are forever indebted to the countless friends and family who have supported us through Trenton's journey and to the following organizations who impacted our lives in so many ways:

UH Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital and Oncology

Cleveland Clinic Children's Oncology and Palliative Medicine

Hospice of the Western Reserve

Carson Strong Foundation

Culinary Fights Cancer

A Special Wish-Northeast Ohio

Fearless Fighters Foundation

The Gathering Place

Cousa Mamas

Burial:

Lake View Cemetery

12316 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106