Obituary of Michael Anthony Ward

July 25, 1942 – Medicine Hat, Alberta

November 17, 2019 – Calgary, Alberta

Michael Ward of Calgary, AB, passed away on Sunday, November 17, 2019 at the age of 77 years.

Michael’s life began in Alberta and ended there. Born to John Edward Ward, RAF and Margery Hodgkiss on July 25, 1942, in Medicine Hat, he travelled to many parts of the world leaving behind a trail of sincere affection from all who knew him. His first exciting journey was in 1944, sailing home to the UK and being hunted by German U-boats. Educated at St. Bartholomew’s School in Newbury, Berkshire, he was a brilliant student achieving distinctions in all Advanced Level science subjects before becoming second in all England in his ACMA accountancy exams. He also earned his Private Pilot’s License at the age of sixteen. In his early twenties he immigrated to Canada and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree at McMaster University, Hamilton, ON (winning a place on the Dean’s Honours List) and his Canadian ACA qualification in a major parallel effort, based in Mississauga, Toronto. He was a keen tennis player, HobieCat enthusiast and an advanced skier: a daredevil on the slopes and this was reflected in the way he did business. He worked internationally with several major Corporations as a trouble-shooter, did not suffer fools gladly, and when he discovered corruption at the highest levels, always moved on. An extraordinary capable Do It Your Self aficionado, his home and garden (including an amazing hand-carved totem pole) were his pride and joy, and his acumen for all aspects of engineering led to him becoming a prime mover in the ongoing Avro Arrow II Project and Museum where he will be sorely missed. He was always there at a moment’s notice for family members and friends in need, demonstrating heartfelt compassion and empathy. Deeply sensitive but with a wicked sense of humour, Michael was a shining light to us all, devoting himself in selfless fashion to the care and comfort of his ailing mother in Cochrane.

Michael is survived by his loving wife Alicja and an adoring extended family.

A private family service will be held at a later date.  Condolences may be forwarded through www.McInnisandHolloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Avro Museum, 229 Avro Ln, Calgary, AB T3Z 3S5, Telephone: (403) 279-7791. www.avromuseum.com

A tree will be planted in living memory of Michael Ward.  McInnis and Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive S.W., Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.