Michael Francis "Mike" Ward

Michael Francis "Mike" Ward, 59, of Springfield, died at 2:23 p.m. on Thursday, November 6, 2014 at his home. Mike was born April 3, 1955 in Evergreen Park, IL, the son of John F. and Rosemary Quinn Ward. Mike earned his bachelor's degree at the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana and was employed as a historian for the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency. He was a member of the Illinois Association of Museums and the Illinois Association of Historic Preservation Commission. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Thomas. He is survived by his siblings, John (wife, Mary) Ward of Lake Suzy, FL, Mary (husband, Tom) Call of Maple Grove, MN, Denise (husband, John) Bohn, Patrick Ward, and David (wife, Meg) Ward, all of Chicago; nieces, Emily (husband, Dave) Cory, Megan Call, and Katie Bohn; nephews, Tom (wife, Nicole) Call and Kevin (wife, Rosie) Call; two great-nieces and one great-nephew; one aunt; and many cousins and friends. Cremation was accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies. Memorial Gathering: Family will receive friends from 9:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, November 11, 2014 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Funeral Mass: 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 11, 2014 at Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 524 E. Lawrence Ave., Springfield with Rev. Christopher House, celebrant. Private burial will be held at Calvary Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to: Misericordia, 6300 N. Ridge, Chicago, IL 60660.