Gerald Ward

Gerald “Gary” L. Ward, age 67, passed away Wednesday morning, September 5, 2012 at MedCentral Mansfield Hospital. He was born April 26, 1945 in Mansfield, one of thirteen children of the late Forrest and Helen (Cosgrove) Ward.

He retired from Purolator Courier where he worked as a driver for 21 years. He also was previously employed at the News Journal for 19 years. Gary-known by many as “Peachy”- was an outgoing man with a wonderful sense of humor. A good conversationalist, he was generous and helpful to others, whenever a need arose. Gary enjoyed the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. He was an avid euchre and poker player.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Anna Fidler Ward; a son, Gerald “Gary” Ward, Jr. and his fiancée, Angela Kirsch of Mansfield; three grandchildren, Erin, Jacob and Madison, all of Mansfield; three brothers, Larry “Pete” (Paula) Ward, Raymond Ward, both of Mansfield, Donald (Goldie) Ward of Minerva; four sisters, all of Mansfield, Shirley Crider, Barbara Franco, Karen (Jack) Swanigan and Brenda (Paul) Allen; three sisters-in-law, Betty Raudabaugh, Clara (Lawrence) Shorter, both of Mansfield and Diane (Ken) Harmon of Sheffield Lake; many nieces and nephews; and his best friend, Shorty, his fox terrier.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a grandson, Gerald Allen Ward; four brothers, Jimmy, Tommy, Richard and William Ward; a sister, Doris Snyder; and two brothers-in-law, Chester Fidler and Mike Hatfield.

Friends and family may visit from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, September 9, 2012 at the Diamond Street Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 98 S. Diamond St., Mansfield. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association.