Jody Wayne Alward

Jody "Toad" Alward, age 68, passed away on Thursday, October 1, 2026. He was preceded in death by his parents Roger and Illa Alward; sister, Robin Alward; brother, Roger Alward Jr.; son-in-law, Logan Sweet; brother-in-law, Scott Price; nephew, Christopher Smith. He is survived by his daughter, Ali Sweet (Dan Paszkowski); mother, Marie Alward; siblings Rhonda (Rick) Hansen, Kim (Susan) Alward, Kathy (Jim) Rotman, Jill Martin, Penny Price, and Paula (Tim) Compagner; and many very special nieces, nephews, and friends.

Jody (or "Toad" as he affectionately was known by many) loved the great outdoors. He spent the spring season sucker fishing and mushrooming. His summers were full of golf outings and shooting clay pigeons. In the fall, deer hunting was his life. His winters consisted of bringing that main character energy of "Team Toad" while ice fishing with friends and family. He could never turn down a game of cribbage, pool, or euchre. Toad was an avid troublemaker, always willing to stir the pot, expert in creating football squares/betting, and could make a wicked "Toady Mary." The family asks that if you are able, please bring a written "Toad" memory for the family so they can compile a complete list.

A celebration of life gathering will be held 12 p.m. Friday, October 9, 2026, with visitation from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. prior to the service, at Cook Funeral Home, 2067 84th Street SW, Byron Center, Michigan 49315. In lieu of flowers and in honor of Toad, please consider a donation to the family to help cover funeral costs. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresbyron.com in their guestbook online.