James David Ward

James David Ward, age 79 of Warren, died Wednesday, April 20, 2016 surrounded by his loved ones at St. John Macomb Hospital in Warren. He was born October 9, 1936 in German Township, Pennsylvania, son of the late Robert and the late Gwendolyn (nee: Barnhart) Ward.With thanks and praise from a grateful nation, we pay homage to James for his service to our country during the Korean War era. As a soldier in the U.S. Army's 51st Infantry - 1st Airborne Division, James served from January 1955 thru December 1957 until returning from his overseas duties and being awarded his honorable discharge. For the sacrifices made and his willingness to stand in harm's way for the cause of freedom, we honor his service and patriotism, and extend our posthumous gratitude for his bravery upon answering the call to duty,...for both our country and our allies overseas.At the age of 26, Jim's major working career began as he was hired by the City of Warren to be a part of their Forestry Department. It was on October 1, 1962 that he embarked upon the beginnings of what would eventually be a long and devoted association with the growing bedroom community. A couple of years later, in June of 1964, Jim's heart prompted him to make a career move,…yet staying within Warren's city services as he went to work for the fire department. Beginning as a paramedic, that would eventually translate into the life of a firefighter,…a position he held in the highest esteem. Following 30 years of dedicated service, Jim accepted his well-deserved retirement in 1991, retiring from the force as Captain.Like many guys, one of Jim's favorite pastimes was feeding his hunger for sports. He was an avid sports fan and a loyal follower of all the "Sports in the D." From Tiger's baseball, to Red Wings hockey, to Lion's football,…Jim had it covered. The family holds onto some precious memories of watching him listening to his "boys of summer" on the radio. The Tiger's had no greater fan than Jim. Other sporting highlights included his love of Michigan State University, the fighting Irish at Notre Dame,…yet one of his pinnacle pleasures, without a doubt, came in Jim's love for the game of golf. Whether watching it or playing it, golf reigned supreme. Obviously, nothing could match the joy of actually navigating the links on a warm and sunny day,…and Jim shared many of those with his golfing buddies over the years. And the golfing mention would be sadly remiss if not to share the "club or two" that made their way into the water from time to time. And lastly, there were the wonderful memories of bowling with his firefighting pals on the leagues throughout the years. Bowling is always the perfect venue for a bit of fun & friendship, and Jim loved every minute of building the relationships with his work buddies.Travel was also a huge favorite of Jim's, quite often entailing hitting the road for a visit with his family members in Pennsylvania. Originally born there, his relocation to Michigan found him leaving some loved ones behind,…but his visits did much to bridge the gap and keep the "home fires burning." His "travelin' jones" also took him to places like Buffalo, NY, Boston & Salem, MA, Chicago, IL and the peach tree state of Georgia. But hands down, the most memorable and often visited destination was to the glitz & glamour of Las Vegas. Nestled between the mountains in Nevada like an oasis in the desert, it not only provided the perfect entertainment fix, but is also the place that Jim and Sandra became husband & wife. So when the wintry mix began falling in the Mitten, it was time to pack their bags and make that "snowbird trek" to their warm and western getaway. A loving husband, father and grandfather, Jim was renowned for possessing a caring and compassionate heart that permeated the souls of all with whom he came into contact. It's been said that it's much a part of what made his such an incredible paramedic and firefighter. He loved his family deeply and unconditionally, and enjoyed each and every moment he was blessed to share their company,…especially around the holidays. Not only in his civic duties, but throughout the scope of his life's journey, Jim's inspiration and influence made an impact that will never be forgotten and will often be reflected upon with love and adoration. He will be missed immensely and loved eternally. James was the beloved husband of Sandra, and the dearest father of Tonja (Craig) Brown, James David (Rhonda) Ward, Elizabeth Richeal, Robert Ward, Jeffrey Ferguson, Felicia Ferguson, and Gregory Ferguson. Loving grandfather of Brittni, Brandon, Paige, Megan, Caitlin, Emily, Madelyn, Lauren, Sarah, Shanna, Adam, Eric and great-grandfather of Tyler, Hank, Eli, Ariannah, Logan, Robert, Brayden, Carter, and Jayden. Brother of Robert "Buddy" (Gloria) Ward, and brother-in-law of Gail (Larry) Martino, Rita Alvillar, and Rose Newell. James is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins. Visitation for James will be held Sunday, April 24th from 3-9pm at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ½ Mile Rd) in Warren. His Funeral Services will be conducted at 10:00 am on Monday at the funeral home, followed by the rendering of military honors by the U.S. Army. Memorial donations are welcomed to the Warren Firefighters Fund Association, P.O. Box 522, Warren, MI 48090-0522,...or may be dropped off at any fire hall in Warren.Please share memories of James at his memory book above.