W. Richard “Dick” Ward

It is with sad hearts that we announce the passing of W. Richard “Dick” Ward of Sidney, Ohio on March 27th, with his family by his bedside at home, at the age of ninety-one (91) years.

Dick was born on the family farm in Shelby County in 1934. He graduated from Sidney High School, served in the United States Army, and attended classes at The Ohio State University of Agriculture. Dick was a successful lifelong farmer in Shelby County and was known by many fellow farmers to be a good steward of the land.

Dick married Carol (Tarlton) Ward in 1960, and they had two children. Theron (Suzanne) Ward of Eaton, Ohio, and Wendy (Kieth) Monnier of Sidney, Ohio. 

During their sixty-five years of marriage, they worked hard in, and for the business of agriculture. Dick was also President of the Sidney Board of Education, involved with the IUTIS Club, serving for many years in various positions. He was involved with Scouting, assisting local kids. Dick was associated with the Saint Paul’s United Church of Christ in Sidney. He served in various positions with the church and taught Sunday School for several years.

As a family, the Ward’s traveled to many of the fifty states, and onto Scotland.  Dick and Carol wintered in New Smyrna Beach, Florida for quite a few winters.

Dick enjoyed his lifelong association with The Ohio State University. Years ago, he decided to donate his body for medical research after his passing with The Ohio State School of Medicine.

Dick was proceeded in death by his parents, Virgil and Ethel (Baker) Ward, his in-laws Ada (Hayes) and Melvin Tarlton, and sister and brother-in-law Patricia and Richard Winter. 

In keeping with Dick’s wishes, there will not be any funeral or services. 

The family wants to thank the many staff members of Heart to Home with Helping Hands, the Wilson Hospice Palliative Care, and Wilson Health of Sidney for their services.