David Michael Ward

David Michael Ward – beloved husband, father, and friend of many – passed away peacefully at his home in Cridersville on December 14, 2022, at the age of 66 surrounded by his loving family.
David (“Dave”) was born to Darreld O. Ward and Patricia J. Welding in Lima, Ohio as the youngest of 3 boys in 1956. He was a graduate of Shawnee High School, was an eclectic pipe and tobacco aficionado, and was known by his friends for his strong opinions and unique and colorful sense of humor.
As a young boy, Dave inherited a love of music from his parents, beginning with playing the piano and trombone as a youngster. His talents flourished as a young man when he shared his gifted, beautiful tenor voice as a wedding singer and as the lead singer in a local band, the Lonny Kennedy and the Wayside Crew, performing at the Wayside Bar in the early 80’s. Dave also shared his beautiful voice participating in musicals at the Encore Theater in Lima with his wife, Sue. He also enjoyed helping friends out over at his favorite spot, Lombardo’s, by bartending. In addition to the good drinks he served up, Dave also entertained patrons by singing songs.
As the great-grandson of an Arabian horse trader, Dave spent his 40 year career in sales and sales management. A very fitting career path for Dave. He started out at the Coca-Cola Company and retired from American Freight in 2021. He held positions ranging from delivery and floor sales to facility manager and district manager. Dave’s no nonsense approach to sales and management made for a successful career, but he took the most pride in mentoring younger sales employees and building lasting, meaningful friendships with his co-workers.
Dave is survived by his wife Susan Beth Woods Ward, daughter Lauren (Matt) Elkins, brother Thomas (Donna) Ward and sister-in-law Debra Ward. He was preceded in death by his parents, Patricia and Darreld Ward and older brother, Larry Ward, Sr. Even though the embers of his pipe have been extinguished, Dave’s memory will live on in the gift of music he shared with others, the kindness he showed, and the laughs remembered.
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