Donald R. Ward Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Donald Richard Ward passed away at Heritage Crossings in Geneva, Nebraska on October 7, 2017 at the age of 83 years, 5 months and 27 days. On April 10, 1934 Duane Donald was born to Glenn and Dorothy (Tatro) Richards. At the untimely death of his birth mother, he went to live with his mother’s sister, Rosella (Tatro) and her husband, Harry Ward of Geneva. After the death of his birth father, who was killed in a grain collapse, he was adopted and his name changed to Donald Richard Ward. Don attended country school District #18 through eighth grade, close to the Ward homestead. He often told stories of riding his horse to school but walking home as the horse had thrown him. Don attended Geneva High School graduating in 1951. He was active in sports with football being his favorite. While in high school, Don met his sweetheart, Shirley Allgood, and they were later crowned king and queen of the Farmer’s Ball. After high school, Don continued living with his mom and dad on their third generation family farm beginning his career in farming and raising livestock. Don married Shirley Gene Allgood, on February 3, 1952. From this marriage four children were born, John, Patricia, Nancy and Tammy. Shirley worked side-by-side with Don on the farm for many years. Many humorous stories were told over the years regarding Don’s escapades with Shirley. He farmed with his father, Harry Ward, until Harry retired. With the help of his son John, the operation grew from gravity irrigation to center pivots and they became premiere cattle feeders. Don’s love of growing things never stopped. After retiring and moving to town, he raised an enormous garden. He took great pride in it and in sharing his produce, especially his tomatoes with family, friends and neighbors. In the early 1970’s, Don purchased Husker football tickets and his love for Husker football grew even more. He was a diehard Husker fan and climbed the stadium steps until it was too difficult for him to attend the games. Don belonged to the Odd Fellows and served as Noble Grand of the Geneva Lodge. He was also a Mason. He was very proud of the 50-year pin he received for being a member of the United Methodist Church. Don was preceded in death by his parents, brothers and sisters of both families and a grandson, Matthew Donald Hansen. Don is survived by his wife of 65 years, Shirley; son John (Barbara) Ward and daughter Patricia (Robert) Engle of Geneva; Nancy Hansen and Tammy Ward (Dan Parsons) of Lincoln; eight grandchildren, Tiffany and Kevin Ward, Chad (Jennifer) Engle, Amy (Ryan) Evans, Cody Engle, Megan (Eric) Robison, Jennifer (Michael) Hansen-Richmond, Laura (Jim) Oliva; and 11 great grandchildren. Funeral services for Don were held at the United Methodist Church on Wednesday, October 11, 2017, at 10:30 a.m. with Rev. Michelle Gowin officiating. Sondra Myers accompanied Jennifer Brinkman in the singing of “Amazing Grace,” “In The Garden,” and “Why Me, Lord.” The recorded selection “Hail Varsity” was played as a processional song and “Blaze Of Glory” was played as a recessional song. Pallbearers for the service included Tiffany Ward, Kevin Ward, Chad Engle, Amy Evans, Cody Engle, Megan Robison, Jennifer Hansen-Richmond, and Laura Oliva. Interment was held in the Geneva Public Cemetery following the Funeral Service. Farmer & Son Funeral Home conducted the services. Online condolences may be left at www.farmerandsonfuneralhome.com Memorials are suggested to the United Methodist Church in Geneva.

Tributes

Donald R. Ward

April 10, 1934 - October 7, 2017