Michael Allan Ward was born October 12, 1951, in Stambaugh, Michigan, to Thomas and Nydia (King) Ward. Michael was the baby of six. His siblings are Jerry (deceased), Dale, Dennis (deceased), Carol Jean (deceased), and Pat (deceased). Michael grew up in Gaastra in the upper peninsula of Michigan. Michael enjoyed being outside and exploring the woods. He tried to stay out of trouble most of the time.
After high school, Michael was drafted. He went down to join the Navy like his brothers and dad had done. The navy was out to lunch and lost out. He joined the Air Force instead. During his time in the Air Force, Michael worked in missile communications. He worked on the Titan and Minuteman missiles, among others. One of his proudest moments was taking top honors in the 1976 Missile Competition. Michael retired after 21 years. He loved his time in the Air Force and would have returned in a heartbeat if they’d asked him.
While stationed at Malmstrom AFB, Michael married and had two children, Stacey and Todd. After transferring to Sheppard AFB, Michael remarried. He married Donna Bertling in July 1983. They had two children, David and Debbie. Michael and Donna raised their four children on various Air Force bases and in Willis, where they moved after retiring from the Air Force.
Michael enjoyed flying remote-controlled airplanes and woodworking. He also spent many years with his boys in scouting, camping with them, and watching them grow. He really enjoyed being Papa and spending time with his granddaughter Olivia.
After moving to Willis, Michael accepted Christ as his savior. He was an active member of First Baptist Church Willis. Michael taught a Sunday School class and worked in the sound booth, running the video for worship services. He loved the Lord and loved his church family.
Michael lost his battle with cancer on April 9, 2024. During his illness, he always had a wonderful attitude. He never asked, “Why me”? He never got angry or discouraged. He knew that this was God’s plan, and he was ready for it.
He will be deeply missed.
A visitation for Michael will be held Sunday, April 14, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Metcalf Funeral Directors, 1801 E White Oak Terrace, Conroe, Texas. A celebration of life will occur Monday, April 15, 2024 at 1:00 PM at First Baptist Church Willis, 12177 I-45 N, Willis, Texas.
Michael will be laid to rest in Pine Oak Cemetery, 1984 County Rd. 381, Cleveland, Texas following the service.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the American Diabetes Association or the building fund at First Baptist Church Willis.
