Walter Keith Ward

Walter Keith Ward passed away on July 11, 2025 at the age of 86 after a courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family. Walter was a devoted husband, loving father, papa, brother and friend whose presence brought comfort and joy.

Walter was born on July 22, 1938 in Silver City, New Mexico to Walter Ward and Ella Ward.

Walter grew up in Silver City, New Mexico. Starting the summer of seventh grade through high school graduation, his summers were spent on his grandfather’s ranch in Mule Creek, New Mexico. It was a working ranch where the day started before the sun went up and ended after the sun went down. During these years, Walter developed an interest in calf roping and began competing in small rodeos on the weekends in surrounding towns.

Immediately after graduation, Walter proudly enlisted in the US Navy, serving from 1956-1962. This commitment reflected his deep sense of duty and honor. He was stationed in San Diego and served time in Japan.

While serving in the Navy, Walter married his beautiful wife JoAnn. She was attending New Mexico Western College. Shortly after his military service, Walter began his professional career in Tucson, Arizona with Furrs Cafeterias. His career provided his family with the opportunity to live in New Mexico, Texas, Colorado, Oklahoma and Arizona. Walter retired as Vice President.

Walter had an appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. He loved bass fishing, rodeos, country music, watching movies, learning new technology, but most of all enjoyed time with friends and family. Walter had a special bond with his granddaughter Ashley and cherished every moment they spent together.

We will find comfort in knowing that Walter’s legacy of love and loyalty lives on through his friends and family. If you knew Walter, your life was richer for it. He will be greatly missed, but easily remembered.

Walter was preceded in death by his wife JoAnn. He is survived by his children, Rick Ward and wife Rhonda; Vickie Ikner and husband Tim; granddaughter Ashley Ikner; sister Marna Boyd and husband David.

Walter’s wish to be cremated has been honored and friends and family will celebrate his life on September 27, 2025. His memories will forever live on in the many hearts of those he loved and touched.