Obituary of William J. Ward

William J. Ward passed away Tuesday, June 22, 2021, in the arms of his wife following a 17-year journey with Alzheimer’s disease.  Bill was born to the late LaVergne and Margaret Ward on September 12, 1946, in Lockport.  He joined the U.S. Navy serving during the Vietnam War aboard the U.S.S. Hermitage.  Bill worked at Ceco Steel in Lemont for several years and went on to become a journeyman wireman for Union Local #176, retiring in 2006.  Bill had many interests in life.  He enjoyed sprint car racing, camping, traveling and was a very avid Chicago Bears fan.  Bill’s greatest pastime was spending that time with his loving family.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his grandparents, Richard and Ethyl (Legg), and several aunts and uncles.

Bill leaves behind to cherish his memory, his wife of 51 years, Rachelle (Campbell) Ward; his daughter, Karen (Greg) Hohenwater; his son, Joe (special friend, Tracie Pilon) Ward; grandchildren, Julian (fiancé, Meghann Furr) Ward, Avery, and Colin Ward, Alaina Sebring and Jack Hohenwater; special great-granddaughter, Maycee Fitzgerald; brother, Robert (Judy) Ward; sister, Bette (late Herb) Belanger; daughter-in-law, Taryn Ward; several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Lightways Hospice and Senior Services.  A special thank you to Pam Loveland for the special care and dignity she gave Bill throughout all her care for him.

Visitation for Bill Ward will be Saturday, June 26, 2021, at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd. (at Essington Rd.), Joliet from 11:00 a.m. until the time of funeral services at 2:00 p.m.  If you choose, please wear your favorite Chicago Bears attire.  Please omit flowers.  Inurnment will be Monday, July 5, 2021, at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery.  Please arrive at the Visitor’s Center by 12:15 p.m.  For more information, please call (815) 741-5500 or you may visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.