Dennis John Ward
Dennis John Ward, 82, of Pine Island, passed away after a battle with cancer. He died peacefully at his home Sunday, Aug. 10, 2014, surrounded by family members. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather.
His wife of 57 years, Ruth Gail Ward, predeceased him Dec. 28, 2012.
He was born Feb. 26, 1932, in Muske-gon, Mich. He had four daughters and a son, Kathy Ward of Schaumburg, Ill., Cindy Ward of Lan-caster, Mass., Carol Ward of Vienna, Va., Kristy Ward of Rapid City, S.D., and Bruce Ward of Barrington, Ill.; and 10 grandchildren.
He is also survived by his sisters, Margaret Felt, also of Pine Island, and Sue Britton of Cape Coral, and a brother, Sam Ward of Muskegon, Mich.
He was predeceased by two sisters, Pat Erickson of Muskegon, Mich., and Mary Ward of Santa Barbara, Calif.
Mr. Ward held a Ph.D. in chemical engineering from the University of Michigan. He developed several patents during his career at the Process Division of Universal Oil Products in Des Plaines, Ill. After retiring, he moved to Pine Island in 1989 and became active with the St. James City Civic Association. His years of service to the SJCCA included serving on the board as treasurer and president, overseeing expansion projects and often providing facility maintenance. He enjoyed the bridge groups and other community activities at the center as well. He also served on the Greater Pine Island Water Association, and was active with the local Habitat for Humanity as part of his service to United Way. He enjoyed boating and fishing in the local waters, and enjoyed the theater.
Donations in his memory can be made to Hope Hospice of Fort Myers, or the American Cancer Society of Fort Myers.