Jack Haven Ward

Jack Haven Ward passed away peacefully at home, with his loved-ones by his side, on April 20, 2023 at the age of 93. Born in Topeka, Kansas, to Byron and Helen Ward, Jack attended Yale University and the University of Kansas.

After graduation, Jack joined the Navy and served in the Korean War. He was released from active duty in Hawaii and used his Navy navigational skills to sail the Pacific, enjoying his jaunts on the Dwyn Wyn. Jack met his wife-to-be, Ethel Alikpala, while attending classes at the University of Hawaii. They got married and moved to New York to begin his PhD work at Cornell University, completing his dissertation research in Indonesia and becoming a Fulbright visiting professor at Ateneo de Manila University.

Jack and Ethel had three daughters and settled their family in Kaneohe in 1968. His career as an educator at the University of Hawaii spanned over 44 years, holding the titles of Director of the Hawaiian Studies program, Professor of Tahitian language, and Adjunct Professor at the University of French Polynesia. In addition to his academic work, Jack retired with the rank of Commander as a Naval reservist.

Jack is loved by his wife, Ethel Alikpala Ward, daughters, Christine (Scott) Koga, Karen (Douglas) Wrobel, Michelle (Andrew) Montemayor, and grandchildren Matthew Alfelor, Noah Montemayor, Isaac Wrobel, Luke Wrobel, Hannah Montemayor, and Ella Montemayor.

A memorial service will be held at Hawaiian Memorial Park Chapel on Sunday, June 18, 2023, at 11:30 a.m. Visitation at 10:00 a.m.

Burial will be at the Hawaii State Veterans Cemetery in Kaneohe on Monday, June 19, 2023 at 10:00 a.m.