I first met Arlon in 1995. I had a house built 2 doors down from the Wards. One dark night I was at the top of my driveway, and heard what sounded like a lawn mower. Thought that was kind of strange. Next thing I see is headlights coming up my driveway. Ended up being Arlon on his John Deere riding mower.  That was our introduction. After that, we became really good fiends. We would float the river and camp on fly island. He was an excellent navigator on the river. Did numerous pack packing trips in the north Georgia mountains. Those were some fun times. Arlon loved adventure. I remember one time Arlon, Pam and his dog took a long trip down the Etawah river all the way to Alabama. I was the one that went and picked them up. Lots of great memories. You will be missed my friend.

I have known and worked with Arlon from his first day of employment at ESI until my retirement in 2012 (approximately 29 years). Even after my retirement we have kept in touch. His professionalism, honesty, his ability to learn and apply and friendly personality always inspired me and I’m sure many other ESI team members and project participants. When people like Arlon leave this earth it creates a void in the  positive influence on life column. In Arlon’s memory we all need to insure that we do everything in our power to spread positive feelings and attitudes in our every living. RIP Arlon and our sympathy and heart felt prayers to Pam, Anna, Amy , James and family members.

I had the honor of serving with Arlon at Fort Campbell in the 1980s. I was fortunate that he took the time to instruct me how to maintain and repair the Cobra helicopter. He taught me well. I shall miss our occasional phone calls. Even though we had not seen each other since he ETSed from the Army it seemed that our conversations did not skip a beat from our time at Fort Campbell. 

Rest in Peace, Brother. Prayers for your family.

Sad to hear about Arlon’s passing. He will be missed. I agree the Arlon was a great co-worker and talented in many ways. One memory I had that was more fun was several of us playing football at the beach when we were working near Savannah. Prayers for Pam and family.

My thoughts and prayers are with you. Pam, Amy and Anna.  I remember meeting Arlon and you, Pam back when Alan and Linda were first together.  I remember going out to Point Mallard - James and Bobbie and the whole family always made me  welcome and a part of the "Ward" family.  And I remember the entire family being there for us when my mom died.  I'm so sorry for your loss and I know yall are each hurting.  I pray God will ease your pain and get you thru this time.  May he keep his arms around you, dry your tears and give you peace and strength thru your grieving and beyond.

I first met Arlon at the airport in Monroe, LA approx. 25 years ago.   I was sent there to help him with ESIs rental boiler. He showed me in those few days we spent together the hard work, character, demeanor and effort it took to be successful both at ESI and life. 
I enjoyed our conversations about family and work…and will remember our last conversation fondly.  In his battle against cancer I can’t help but think of this scripture, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.”

I will miss him very much.  Rest in peace Arlon and prayers for Pam, Anna and Amy.

Arlon from American Fructose to SWDA it was a great ride you always exceeded the tasks in front of you and placed others before you.
Your presence will always be felt at ESI

Arlon was the construction manager on the first project I was assigned to as a new employee with ESI in 1988, I got to know Arlon well and we became good friends. Arlon was a key figure in the success of ESI. I will always remember and cherish my friendship with Arlon.

Arlon, I will be forever thankful for all I learned from you at ESI about how to be a better engineer but more importantly a better person.  I will miss our numerous conversations about all manner of topics.  May God surround Pam, Anna, and Amy with love and comfort in their grief.  Godspeed my friend.

Arlon we will miss you. You were a great friend and I will miss our talks and fun times. Praying for your family and all your little girls and loving wife.

OBITUARY

Arlon Craig Ward

3 September, 1963 – 8 January, 2025

Owen Funeral Home

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