Timothy "Timmy" Michael Ward

Timothy Michael Ward, known to just about everyone as Tim or Timmy, left this world on December 21, 2025, in Detroit, Michigan, surrounded by the people who loved him most. He was 68 years young, because anyone who knew Tim knows he never acted a day over 15.

Born on June 21, 1957, in Jackson, Michigan, to Betty Lou Keeper and Howard Francis Ward, Tim grew up in Stockbridge, where he quickly became known for two things: his athletic talent and his antics. If there was a way to make a moment louder, funnier, or more memorable, Tim found it. He graduated from Stockbridge High School in 1975 and carried that same spark with him everywhere he went.

Tim eventually settled in Holt, Michigan, where he began a 39-year career with Barnes Aerospace as a Senior Aerospace Mechanic. He didn’t just work there he built a second family. His coworkers became lifelong friends; the kind who added joy, laughter, and the occasional harmless trouble to his days. Tim’s energy was magnetic. People didn’t just like him, they gravitated toward him.

Tim is survived by his wife and partner in all things, Kathy of Eaton Rapids, and his beloved Wego; his daughter Amanda of Lansing; his son Michael (Autumn) of Holt; and his stepchildren Mallory Gruhn of Lansing, Michael Gruhn (Janela) of Austin, Texas, and Elijah Gruhn of Seattle, Washington. He was the proud Papa of Korine Brady (Andrew), Sawyer, Savannah, Madelyn Gruhn, and Bennett Gruhn. He is also survived by his sister Jodi Schmitz (Bob), and his brothers Jim “Jimbo” (Dawn), Christopher (Stacy), and Matthew (Becky). He leaves behind many nieces and nephews—and even more “children” he collected along the way.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his niece, Kristin Provoast of West Branch, Michigan.

Tim loved the outdoors, enjoying hunting, golfing, and camping but his true passion was people. His life mission was simple: Make someone smile every single day. And he did. With his suns-out-guns-out-all-year-round wardrobe, his booming laugh, and his ability to turn strangers into friends in under five minutes, Tim lit up every room, campsite, backyard, and ball field he entered. He possessed an unparalleled gift for crafting nicknames that last a lifetime.

Tim lived for his children and showed up for every moment. If his kids were playing a sport, he was there—usually as “Coach,” even when no one officially gave him the title. He gained a whole team of sons and daughters, because if you were Mike and Amanda’s friend, teammate, or even just around long enough, Tim claimed you as his own. His family tree stretches across states, campgrounds, and decades.

He and Kathy shared a life full of adventure, traveling in their camper, trying new restaurants, or hosting backyard gatherings that always included food, laughter, and Tim in

a cutoff shirt. They were true partners, doing everything side by side, finding joy in the simple act of being together.

Tim was unapologetically himself from day one. He sucked his finger through fourth grade, sprinted home after school to rub his Monko’s fur, and started smoking at 11 years old because, well, he was going to live life his way. No one could tell him how to be, but everyone who loved him was grateful they got to be along for the ride. Anyone who knew Tim will tell you the same thing: they’ve never met anyone like him. And they never will again. But if you met Tim and didn’t like him, well “that was their problem.”

He was happy in his life. He enjoyed it fully, fiercely, and without hesitation. His joy brought joy. His love made people feel like they belonged. His presence made ordinary days feel like stories worth retelling.

Tim will be deeply missed by his family, his friends, and the countless people who became family simply by knowing him.

A casual celebration of life will be held at the Crowne Plaza Lansing, 925 South Creyts Road, January 3, 2026, from 1pm to 5pm. Don't wear a suit. Sleeves optional. Timmy style.