Samuel C. Ward

Samuel Chester Ward, a loving family man and proud veteran, passed away on September 30, 2025, in Rowlett, TX, at the age of 81.

Sam was born on February 20, 1944, in Dallas and grew up in the Love Field area. He was raised by his mother Catherine (Lucille) and was deeply influenced by his grandparents, especially his grandfather, who sparked his lifelong love of airplanes and airshows.

After the Army, Sam met the love of his life Dolores and was married in 1968 until the time of her death earlier this year. He missed her dearly every day since.

A devoted father, Sam is survived by his daughters, Amy Ward and Emily Tankersley, and her husband Jim; his son, Sean Ward, and his wife Nikki; and his favorite fishing buddy, grandson, Mitchell Tankersley. He is also remembered by his loving sister, Theresa Colgin, and her husband Jim, brother-in-law Stan Bartnikowski, sister-in-law Charlotte Herr and many nieces and nephews who he adored. He is preceded in death by his mother, father Fred, and sisters Barbara Leonard and Cathy Bartnikowski.

Sam's life was marked by service and dedication. He was a very proud veteran of the U.S. Army, where he served in Germany during the Cold War. After his military service, he continued to give back to his community, spending many years as a volunteer with the Garland Emergency Corps and later with the Boy Scouts in Rowlett and Garland. His commitment to these organizations demonstrated his belief in the importance of service and leadership development.

Sam's interests were a reflection of his love for the outdoors and his family. An avid hunter, camper and fisherman, he found joy and tranquility in the beauty of nature and in the friends and family he shared these experiences with. He was quick to share his knowledge and stories with anyone around, especially around a campfire. His other joy was cooking; he would find a recipe on a favorite cooking show and then share the kitchen with Dolores to make something wonderful and new.

Samuel's journey through life with his beloved Dolores will leave a legacy of love with his family. As we bid farewell, we take solace in the memories he leaves behind, the lessons he taught us, and the love he gave.