Harriot "Happy" Naomi Ward

September 7, 1929 – January 15, 2011

Happy passed away Saturday January 15, 2011 peacefully at home surrounded by her family. Born Harriot Wigglesworth on Sept 7, 1929 in Placerville, she was the twelfth of thirteen children. Known as Happy since infancy, the name very accurately described her all of her life. She grew up in Placerville, graduated from El Dorado High School in 1947, and married Sidney Ward in 1948, to whom she was married until his death in 2001. She is the proud mother of Pam Alexander (Dennis), Peggy Riha (Bob), Larry Ward (Bev), and Wendell Ward (Arlynn). She has 8 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.

Happy had many true and loyal friends which she valued greatly. Her extensive family of brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews were a continued source of pride, comfort and happiness throughout her life. But the center of her universe was her home and children. She worked tirelessly for the family and tried to make us as happy as she was. As a young girl she dreamed of raising a family, and could not have imagined how full this dream would become. Mommy, Gramsie, Hap may be gone from this world, but never forgotten.

She worked for the Empire Theater, Murray”s Stationary, Placerville Fruit Growers, Diamond Food and the El Dorado County Elections department.

Although she was happiest at home, surrounded by her family, her travels took her wherever her family was. She traveled through Europe, boated into Canada on the inland passage, snowmobiled through Yellowstone and Jeeped through the Rubicon. These may not have been her chosen vacation destinations, but if that was where her family was headed, there was no doubt where she would be.

If everyone lived a life like hers, we would truly be living in a better world.

Happy’s funeral will be at the Episcopal Church in Placerville on Tuesday January 25, 2011 at noon. Arrangements by Chapel of the Pines.

All are invited to attend and please put on your best Happy face.