Roger Dee Ward

Roger Dee Ward of Cambridge, Ohio died at the age of 81 on Monday March 8th. He passed away in his residence in the company of his family after a difficult struggle with cancer. Roger was born September 9th 1928 in Gowanda, New York to parents Donald and Flora Ward. He graduated from Gowanda High school. Roger enlisted in the Army in 1950, serving in the Korean Conflict with the 45th infantry division. After his honorable discharge as Sergeant First Class Roger completed a Bachelor's degree in Forestry from Syracuse University. He worked as a forester for Ohio Department of Natural Resources for several years, and then took a position as camp manager for the Civilian Conservation Corps in Zanesville, Ohio until his retirement in 1989. He enjoyed working part-time at The Wilds after his retirement. Roger was active in the community, serving on the Cambridge City Tree Commission, Boy Scouts of America, and member of the local Celtic Society. Roger dedicated his life to Christ and was baptized in 1968. He attended the Stop 9 Church of Christ in Byesville, Ohio. He enjoyed lifelong hobbies of oil painting and reading. Roger is survived by his wife of 42 years Barbara Ward, children Scott Fitzgerald, Mark Fitzgerald and wife Beth, and Patrick Ward and wife Heather. Grandchildren include Brad and wife Sarah, Julie and husband Orges, and Tyler Fitzgerald; Cassidy, Nathan, and Bridget Ward, and one great-grandchild, Sunny Jane Fitzgerald. He is also survived by younger brother Ralph "Bud" Ward and his wife Barbara; and his mother-in-law, Helen Gregg. Roger's cremated remains will be interred at the Old Washington Cemetery. A memorial service will be held at the Stop Nine Church of Christ in Byesville, Ohio on Wednesday March 10th at 4:00 PM. Please call the church office for more information. Roger requests that donations be made to Hospice of Guernsey County in lieu of flowers. He wishes to be remembered for his faith in Christ, his love of the outdoors, and loyalty to his country. Thorn-Black Funeral Home, Cambridge, is handling arrangements.