Thomas A Ward

Thomas A. Ward, age 92, of Crown Point, passed away on January 24, 2020, five years and one week after the passing of his beloved wife of 64 years, Sue Ward. He was born June 6, 1927. He was a navy veteran, having served in World War II in Japan. He graduated from Western Kentucky University and also received a degree from Indiana University. As a Hilltopper, he had many successes running track, finishing one season as state runner-up. His passion for sports pervaded the rest of his life, evident in his years as a devoted coach and teacher at Gary Lew Wallace High School. He golfed and spent countless hours with his best friends at Youche Country Club, where he was a member for over 40 years. A loyal fan of the Chicago White Sox and IU men’s basketball, he often enjoyed the games with the company of his family. Tom was a vibrant, colorful character whose influence will continue to be felt by the many people he impacted, especially in the family who survived him. His quick-witted humor and lively nature made him a memorable figure, but it’s the legacy of his boundless love for his wife and family that will make him unforgettable. He is preceded in death by his parents Alan and Gladys, his wife, Sue Ward, his daughter Carol Ward, and his grandson Ryan Ward-Knipp. He is survived by his sister Jane Sosh, his son Scott Ward (Shawnee Bergman), his granddaughter Sarah Otero (Ben), his grandson Thomas Vanderplough (Josh Bostic), his dearly loved great-grandchildren, Julian Ward-Knipp, Maria Otero, and Lauren Otero, and his honorary family member Victoria Vingua. Tom had a habit of passing on wisdom to most of those he met and often did so in the form of clever common sayings. So do him a favor and, as he used to say- don’t take any wooden nickels, keep your powder dry, and- a bit less colloquial- don’t change lanes on the highway. Friends are invited to visit with Tom’s family on Wednesday, January 29, 2020 at Burns Funeral Home, 10101 Broadway, Crown Point from 10 am until the time of the funeral service at 11 am. At rest at Calumet Park Cemetery, Merrillville. www.burnsfuneral.com.

Thomas A Ward

June 6, 1927 - January 24, 2020