Donald Ward

EAST DOVER- Donald “Donnie” Earl Ward died peacefully at his home on Friday, June 2, at the age of 92.  He is survived by his wife Abigail; daughter Kathleen (from his late ex-wife, Lena Gregorowitz); and granddaughter Stacy, daughter of the late Wayne “Blackie” Blackadar.
His funeral and celebration of life  was Thursday, June 8, at the West Dover Congregational Church, with a reception following at the West Dover Inn.
Donnie was a proud Air Force veteran who returned to his hometown of Branford, CT, upon completing his service in the Korean War. After working at the telephone company for many years, he moved to Vermont because of his love of skiing. There he built his successful electrical company, Ward Electric. Although dedicated to his business, he nonetheless enjoyed every weekend skiing at Mount Snow in the winter or playing tennis at the Sitzmark in the summer.
Early retirement was an easy choice for Don as he then turned his attention to woodworking and house building. Retired but never still, Don demonstrated how the accomplishment of hard work amplified the pleasure of a cold beer at the end of the day. Don remains affectionately known as Pop Pop by his granddaughter. Stories of his cowboy-hat-wearing gruff attitude contrasted by his underlying kindness and steadfast commitment to doing right by others will always be remembered.
If friends desire gifts in Don’s memory may be made to the Vermont Veterans’ Home in Bennington, care of Covey Allen & Shea Funeral Service, PO Box 215, Wilmington, VT 05363. To send the family personal condolences visit www.sheafuneralhomes.com.