Sharon Lee Ward

Sharon Lee Ward, age 81, passed away on Thursday, March 26th, 2026. A deeply devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she was the heart of her family and cherished beyond measure by all who knew her. Sharon was born September 27th, 1944, in Muskegon to Richard and Beatrice (Bushman) Ortquist. She graduated from Muskegon High School in 1962 and married the love of her life, Richard Lee Ward, on September 29th, 1962. Just a few weeks prior to Richard's passing on October 19th, 2022, they were able to celebrate 60 love-filled years together.

Sharon dedicated many years to working in food service through the Mona Shores School District. In her free time, she loved crocheting, knitting, reading, and traveling… especially to casinos with her husband and friends. She found beauty in nature- always pointing out cardinals, hummingbirds, and butterflies that she could admire through her windows. Above all else, Sharon lived for her family. No matter what it took, she would make sure she attended to support her children and grandchildren at their school and sporting events. She loved her family eternally- even her many "grand dogs. Through her kindness and generosity, she built a legacy rooted in love, resilience, and unwavering dedication to her family. There is no doubt her absence will be profoundly felt, but we are comforted knowing she is at peace, reunited with the love of her life.

She leaves behind her 3 children: Mark (Pam) Ward, Denise (Bob) Thomas, and Steven (Cheryl) Ward; 5 grandchildren: Corey (Nick) Thomas, Courtney Thomas, Derek (Jennifer Nelund) McDaniel, Trevor (Shannon) McDaniel, and Gabrielle (Trevor Baker) Ward; great-granddaughter, Matilda Nelund-McDaniel; sister, Jacqueline Martin; sister-in-law, Anita Ward; and many nieces and nephews.

Sharon was also preceded in death by her parents; brother, Richard Ortquist, and his wife, Cathleen; and brother-in-law, Charles Martin.

In accordance with Sharon's wishes, there will be no public service.

Those who wish may honor her life and legacy by making a donation in her name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Share memories with the family at their online Guest Book at www.sytsemafh.com

Arrangements by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444 (231) 798-1100