David R. Ward

David R. Ward, 70, of Comstock Park, MI, ended the journey and passed away on Jan. 8, 2018. “I have fought the good fight, finished the race and kept the faith”, (2 Timothy 4:7). Dave was born in Kalamazoo, MI, and graduated from Grand Rapids Catholic Central H.S. in 1965, earning an award in 1964 for the WOOD TV All-Star Class A football team (dream team). He was awarded a John Bos athletic scholarship to Grand Rapids Community College in 1965, playing and lettering in football for two years. From there, he continued on to receive a BA degree from Adrian College in 1969, earning first-team all-MIAA honors in football in 1968 and serving as a resident advisor and intramural sports director. He spent over 20 years as a referee in football, umpire in softball, and official in volleyball. Dave spent over 29 years working as the safety director for Equity Transportation in Walker, MI. “In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps”, (Proverbs 16:9). His greatest joy, however, was as father to daughters Andrea Ward (Mark Madrilejo) of Comstock Park, MI, and Sara (Jim) Bryans of Albany, NY. He loved spending time with his family and being a proud Grandpa to his two grandchildren, Sean and Meghan. He was an active member of St. Jude Catholic Church in Grand Rapids and was granted the privilege to serve as a Eucharistic minister and member of the Adult and Resurrection funeral choirs. “He that endureth to the end shall be saved”, (Matthew 10:22). Dave is preceded in death by his mother Rita, and father Roland Michelson, Sr. A visitation will be held Thursday, Jan. 11, 2018 from 5-8pm at Reyers North Valley Chapel with a Rosary at 7:30 pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Jude Catholic Church Friday Jan. 12, 2018 at 11am. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Deacon Dale Hollern Scholarship Fund; c/o Foundation for Catholic Secondary Education; 360 Division Avenue S; Grand Rapids, MI, 49503-4539; to honor a great man of God who greatly affected Dave’s life. May God rest his soul and we will see him when we reach our eternal reward together.