ROBERT WARD

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ROBERT WARD On August 31, 2011, Robert Ward, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, peacefully passed away at the age of 95 years, surrounded by the love of his family. He will be deeply missed by his wife of 69 years, Frances, who was the love and light of his life, his two sons, Robert Ward (Valerie), Tom Ward (Patricia); his two daughters, Frances Krempin (Werner), Rosemary Vinke (Roy); his grandchildren, Jason (Amanda), Dan (Tracy), Jennifer (Ainslie), Mathew (Julie), Candace (Mat), Kristen, Michael, Megan and Kevin; and his great-grandchildren, Alexander, Amelia, Justin and Calista. Dad is also survived by his sisters-in-law Elva Ward of Vancouver and Margaret Stewart of Edmonton, as well as Britt Krempin, and many nieces and nephews. Robert was predeceased by his parents and his brothers, Jack and Marb, and many of his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law. Dad was born in Rathwell, MB, but as a child the family moved to Winnipeg where Dad grew up. Dad attended Gordon Bell High School, and after graduating he began his career in sales with Dr. Ballards. Dad was a reserved person, but his persistent nature enabled him to excel in sales and mostly anything that he took on in future life. Around this time Dad met Mom, his Florence Nightingale, who he married on November 18, 1942. It was The Second World War, and husband and wives were being separated. Dad and Mom were one of those couples, and shortly after they were married, Dad who was enlisted in the Air Force was stationed in Trenton, ON, where he was trained in electronics and radar. Mom and Dad lived in Trenton until Dad was sent overseas and stationed in England. Not to be left at home, Mom joined the American Red Cross as a civilian nurse and was sent to Italy. With Dad stationed in London and Mom in Italy, when the war ended they decided to stay on in Germany. Dad became the Director of U.N.R.R.A., United Nations Relief and Rehabilitation Administration. U.N.R.R.A. was an organization that was implemented to plan, administer, co-ordinate, and arrange the administration of measures for the relief of victims of war under the control of any of the United Nations. U.N.R.R.A. was also responsible for the provision of food, fuel, clothing, shelter, medical and other essential services. U.N.R.R.A.'s main mandate was to help displaced persons return to their home countries in Europe. In 1950 Dad and Mom returned home to Canada with their two young sons and began their life in Winnipeg. Dad was an entrepreneur and started his own business when returning home. A few years later, Dad decided to take a job with the Federal Government, Department of Indian Affairs, as an auditor. Dad stayed with the government until his retirement in 1981. During his tenure as an auditor, Dad completed and received his Certified Management Accountant Designation. Dad enjoyed his holidays in Mexico, especially when the family came. Learning, sports and his family were the most important things in his life. As kids we spent many summers on the family boat, The Dundee, Dad's project with his sons. Prayers will be held on Wednesday, September 7, 2011, at 7:00 p.m. at Holy Mary Mother of the Church, 85 Kirkbridge Drive, Winnipeg. Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, September 8, 2011, at 2:00 p.m. also at Holy Mary Mother of the Church. The family wishes to thank Colleen Gault, Dad's caregiver, whose compassion and kindness made his life at home comfortable. We also thank his Home Care helpers who treated him with dignity and respect. Dad was patient, kind, loving and was an inspiration to all of his family. Dad's love, support and advice will be greatly missed. We love you Dad. For those who wish to sign the online Guest Book please visit our website. Chapel Lawn www.chapellawn.mb.ca 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 06, 2011