Joseph Shoyer Ward

Joseph Shoyer Ward, 95, of Danbury, passed away on March 14, 2021. Joe was born in Newark, NJ, to E. Bernard and Helen Shoyer Ward. He grew up in Short Hills, NJ, graduating from Millburn High School. He was also a graduate of Western Maryland College (now McDaniel), where he met his wife, Virginia Voorhees Ward. They were together 53 years, until she passed away in 2002. Joe was also predeceased by his daughter Margaret.

Joe had a long and rewarding career working with computers at IBM. During this time, he and his family relocated to Mt. Kisco, NY. Over the next 28 years, Joe was actively involved in St. Mark's church, as well as camping, Scouting, bicycling, and rally racing. Joe and Ginny enjoyed extensive travels across the US and Canada, as well as Europe and Asia. In 1981, at age 55, Joe fulfilled a long-held dream when he spent the summer hiking the Appalachian Trail. Joe also enjoyed singing in his churches' choirs from childhood until he was in his 90's.

In 1995, Joe and Ginny moved to Danbury, CT, where Joe discovered the Danbury Railway Museum. He volunteered there in many capacities for the next 25 years.

Joe always had a fondness for cars, but especially enjoyed his “baby,” a 1973 Mercedes sportster that he purchased when he was in his 80's.

Joe was generous, compassionate, and the ultimate caregiver. He was a founding member of the Milburn Short Hills Volunteer First Aid Squad in 1958, serving with them until the family moved to New York. He lovingly cared for Ginny and Margaret prior to their deaths.

“Poppa” Joe is survived by his children Janet, Phyllis, Sheila (Ken), and Bernard (Judit); his grandchildren Chris (Melinda), Wayne, Abel (Edina), Judit (Zoltan), Janabeth, and Abigail; and great-grandchildren George, Brynn, Valeryann, Peter, Jadeann, Barrett, and Benjamin. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Win, sisters-in-law Marilyn and Jolinda (Jim), and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife Ginny and daughter Margaret, he was also predeceased by his sisters Jean-anne and Mary Beth.

Due to Covid restrictions and concerns, a memorial service will take place at a later date.

Donations in his memory may be made to The Danbury Railway Museum, 120 White Street, Danbury, CT 06810.

For online condolences, please visit www.thegreenfuneralhome.com .