David Bertrum Ward

Born in Charlottetown, PEI on April 7, 1952, Dave Ward passed away peacefully at Kelowna General Hospital on September 12, 2021 at the age of 69. During those 69 years, Dave carved out a reputation as a hardworking and talented "car guy" whose passion for anything with an engine led him to a career in the automotive industry, where he came to specialize in automotive electrical systems. He loved the challenge of making something work that no one else could figure out!

Dave became well-known in the Kelowna automotive community as the owner/operator of Ward's Auto Electric and of Dream Weaver Automotive, which he ran with his brother Stu. Prior to retiring from business in more recent years, he operated Air Wolfe Auto / Dave Ward Electric. In all of these ventures, Dave earned customer's respect through honesty and integrity and he was a go-to for many who knew that they would get the best service and straightforward advice without the "B.S."

Always good for a laugh or a sarcastic comment, Dave's self-described "warped mind" led to him being an integral part of many unique projects, including building two monster trucks, a number of race cars, and many custom vehicles – both for himself and for others. He even designed and built multiple all-electric vehicles before they were mainstream. Walking through a local car show with Dave was like scrolling through a musician's back catalogue of greatest hits. He had worked on almost all of them! Anyone who has built a custom car or a street rod in the Kelowna area has likely met Dave.

In spite of medical challenges in his later years, Dave continued to stay connected to many of the other car guys in town and would often play "consultant" to those needing his expertise. He has saved the day for many gear heads who couldn't figure out how to make something work! He also made sure that his beloved grandkids were looked after and that "the landlord" (a.k.a. his son) took good care of the family home. A huge thanks goes out to those who would regularly take time to bring him a cup of coffee (preferably a Timmy's!) and attempt to solve all the world's problems! Your visits meant a lot.

Dave leaves behind his loving wife of 48 years, Margaret Anne, his son Ryan (Shannon) and the two granddaughters who were the apples of his eye, Maddy and Beth. He also leaves behind his sisters Debra Firmaniuk and Carrie Royce of Edmonton, AB, and many nieces and nephews. Dave is predeceased by his parents Ira and Violet Ward, his brothers Bill and Stu, and his sister Jennie Rice.

We will miss his mischievous grin and quick wit!

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, September 24, 2021 at 10:00 am with Covid restrictions at Valleyview Funeral Home. To follow the service go to https://funeraweb.tv/diffusions/37142.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.valleyviewfuneralhome.com for the Ward family.