

When Gerald’s retirement finally arrived in 1993, he was well prepared. Even in retirement, Gerald continued to stay in touch with his old friends while making plenty of new acquaintances. Gerald was active in his new community and felt fulfilled with the opportunities retirement offered him.Gerald George Ward was known as many things to many people. He was a loved one, a friend, and someone special. To family and friends who knew him best, Gerald will be remembered as a very exceptional person.
Gerald was born on December 16, 1935 at Oshawa General Hospital in Oshawa, Ontario. He was the son of Stanley and Margaret Ward and grew up in the Whitby/Oshawa area.
Gerald was raised with three sisters, Dawn, Janice (his twin) and Judy. Gerald was usually involved in all sorts of activities with his siblings. He and his siblings experienced rivalries typical of a growing family, but they shared many life experiences over the years.
A typical teenager, Gerald had a fairly happy high school experience, making that critical transition from adolescence to adulthood. He attended Central Collegiate and enjoyed some classes more than others, having favourite subjects and teachers.
Always considered a “good” friend to those he knew, Gerald enjoyed a broad group of acquaintances and several very close friends during his lifetime. While growing up, some of his best friends were the Bouckley's.
On December 24, 1969 Gerald exchanged wedding vows with Barbara Ellen Rose at Kedron United Church of Oshawa, Ontario. Empathic and loyal, Gerald was committed to making his new family happy.
Gerald worked hard to be a good father to his children and he did his best to fulfill their needs. Gerald was blessed with three children, two daughters, Leigh-Anna and Vanessa, and one son, Jason. Another blessing for Gerald was the gift of six grandchildren, Chantel, Chad, Megan, Bradley, Brandon and the late Taylar and one great granddaughter, Taylar.
Fortunately, Gerald enjoyed what he did for a living. Showing a strong work ethic, Gerald worked diligently and did his best to succeed in his career. His primary occupation was as a labourer. He was employed for 29 years at Goodyear Tire - Rubber Company. Gerald always sought to be a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done.
Gerald passed away on April 4, 2018 at Lakeridge Health Oshawa after a short battle with Kidney disease. He is survived by his children Leigh-Anna, Vanessa and Jason, his grandchildren and great granddaughter. Services were held at Oshawa Funeral Home.
Simply stated, Gerald was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Gerald leaves behind him a legacy of life-long friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life he touched will always remember Gerald George Ward.
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WARD, Gerald George
(Retired Employee of GoodYear Rubber and Tire Company)
Unexpectedly and peacefully and Lakeridge Health – Oshawa on Wednesday, April 4th, 2018 at 82 years of age. Predeceased by his parents Stanley and Margaret Ward. Cherished father of Leigh-Anna Ward (Mark), Vanessa Ward and Jason Ward. Loving grandfather (papa) of Chantel, Chad, Megan, Bradley, Brandon, the late Taylar and great grandfather of Taylar. Dear brother of Dawn Carr, Janice Hughes and Judy Ward. He will be fondly remembered by his many nieces, nephews and friends. Visitation will be held at OSHAWA FUNERAL HOME, 847 King Street West (905-721-1234) on Monday, April 16th, from 2:00 p.m. until time of Service of Remembrance in the Chapel at 3:00 p.m. Memorial donations to Heart & Stroke Foundation or the Kidney Foundation would be appreciated.
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