Obituary of Charles Eric Ward

April 18, 1947 – Winnipeg, Manitoba

January 28, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

The family of Eric Ward is greatly saddened to announce his passing on Sunday, January 28, 2024, at the age of 76 years. He passed away with dignity after a long struggle with Alzheimer's disease.

Eric was the beloved husband and best friend of Maureen for 55 years, the loving father of Paula Cathryn and Michael Andrew; a loving father-in-law to Dean David, and proud grandfather to Colton, Noah, and Mia David. Also surviving him is his sister Sheila Ward (Trish), and Maureen's siblings, Beth Wilson (Thom, Greg, Elliot), Sylvia Holland (Catherine), and Mark Holland (Josanne). He was predeceased by his parents, O.M. (Mel) and H.J. (Jean) Ward, and his in-laws, John and Kathleen Holland.

Born in Winnipeg, his younger years involved many moves between Manitoba and BC, as his dad was a captain in the Canadian army. As a young boy he loved his adventures up in Fort Nelson, but his most interesting move was to Germany for his high school years in Soest, where he learned to speak German and to play the pipe organ. Once back in Canada, he taught organ at Heintzman Pianos in Winnipeg and went to United College for one year while living with his grandfather, Charlie Kennedy. In 1966, he moved to Calgary where his dad was then stationed. He went to the University of Calgary where he met Maureen. They married on August 10, 1968, after which Maureen started teaching and Eric completed his Bachelor of Education.

He was a much-loved teacher in Calgary for 34 years. He was known for the rapport he built with his students and the concern he had for their well-being and success, his award-winning yearbook layouts, and his sense of humour. One of many favourite memories from his teaching years was that of trips on the Edgewater Fortune, sailing off the coast of Vancouver Island with his students and always with his good friend and colleague, Gord.

Eric had many talents. He could speak French and German as well as being articulate and witty in English, he played the organ and keyboard, he sang in choirs and choruses, and he was an artist and photographer. He was also an accomplished self-taught handyman, using his skills to make our homes attractive and comfortable. His hobbies never took him far from home, his immediate family always came first; he was completely devoted to us.

Retirement began with a move to High River, where he volunteered and later was employed at F.A.I.M. (Day support program for adults with developmental disabilities; the program our son Michael attends), Special Olympics, and at High River United Church. He still had time for lots of walking, reading, drawing, singing, playing golf, and travelling. He also thoroughly enjoyed many activities and holidays with his grandchildren when they were young. Eric will be remembered for his quick sense of humour, kindness, and his calm, gentle ways. He was an amazing husband, father, grandfather, teacher, and friend. He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. We were blessed to have had him in our lives; we have so many beautiful memories.

The family would like to thank the staff of Silverado Creek Seniors Community for the kind, gentle care they gave Eric in his time there.

Funeral Services will be held at High River United Church (123 Macleod Trail SW, High River, AB) on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Hall at the Church.

Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Eric's service streamed live on the day of the service at Celebration of Life Service for Eric Ward

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Eric’s family here.

In living memory of Eric Ward, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.