Dan Ward

With his family by his side, Dan Boyce Ward passed away early Monday morning, April 28, 2025, after a brave battle with cancer. He was born on August 16, 1937, in Kalamazoo, the son of Bill and Grace Ward.

Dan attended State High in Kalamazoo and went on to earn both his undergraduate and graduate degrees from Western Michigan University. It was at WMU where he met Judith Olson, whom he married in Alma, MI, on June 25, 1960.

Early in his career, Dan taught industrial arts at Harper Creek High School-a role he genuinely loved and one that left him with years of memorable stories. He later transitioned into the private sector, serving as Director of Quality at Durametallic Corporation, where he remained for the rest of his career.

Dan and Judith raised two children, David and Marcella. He was an avid golfer, playing in a weekly league for many years. He also enjoyed traveling, playing bridge, and spending summers at the camper near the beach in South Haven.

Following Judith's passing in 2004, Dan found companionship with Deborah Ensign of Battle Creek. Together, they shared twenty wonderful years filled with travel, friendship, and family time including moments with the grandchildren: Nicholas Ward, Madeline and Natalie Hunt, Joshua, Jessica, and Andrew Bowlsby and great-grandchildren: Joshua Jr., Haylee and Isabella Bowlsby.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Judith. He is survived by his son, David (Ruth) Ward of Cincinnati, OH; his daughter, Marcella (Brian) Hunt of Kalamazoo, Deborah Ensign and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A celebration of Dan's life will be held in the coming months. Memorial contributions may be made to the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center.