Michael James Ward

Mike Ward, 58, passed away June 23rd, 2022, surrounded by his family, which he loved dearly, and 5 dogs, which he… tolerated. He is survived by his wife, Tracee (T-Bird or simply “Mama”), and his two children, Ashton (Little Britches) and Michael (Bro). He loved giving nicknames.

Mike was born February 19th, 1964 in Charlotte to James (JT) and Margaret (Big Maggie) Ward. He was incredibly athletic. He played basketball at Belmont Abbey where he broke school records for parties attended and classes skipped. While there, he met his wife while they were both volunteering at the Special Olympics… but if you’d asked him, she was competing, not volunteering. They were soulmates, partners in crime, and best friends for over 35 years. They were a love story for the ages. She will miss him.

Mike could usually be found in his recliner watching The Maury Show, The People’s Court, or Seinfeld. He was a devoted fan of the Duke Blue Devils, Virginia Tech Hokies, Minnesota Twins and, most fervently, the Minnesota Vikings. Mike recently fulfilled one of his lifelong dreams by attending a Vikings game in Minneapolis with Tracee. They won 19-9, as they knew their biggest fan was watching in the crowd.

Mike was a dedicated employee to United Rentals for nearly 25 years. To his UR family, he is eternally grateful. Mike enjoyed the simple things in life — riding in his Jeep with the doors off, fishing on his boat at Lake Tillery, riding his golf cart around Surfside Beach, and getting ice cream at the Sundae Shop with Tracee on a hot summer night.

In lieu of flowers, please stop by Arby’s and order a Roast Beef and Cheddar sandwich.

Mike will be missed more than words in an obituary can describe. He was bigger than life.

To his two children, Ashton and Michael:

There has never been a man who boasted about his children more than Mike. Of all his accomplishments, of which there were many, you were his proudest.

To the love of his life, Tracee:

“Oh, I, if I stay here without you darling, I will die

I want you laying in the love I have to bring

I’d do anything

To be your everything”

-Andy Gibb, “I Just Want to Be Your Everything”

Their song.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation Monday, June 27th, 2022 from 4:00 to 7:00pm at McEwen Funeral Service - Mint Hill Chapel 7428 Matthews Mint Hill Rd. Mint Hill, NC 28227. On Tuesday, June 28th, 2022 at 10:30am, Mike will be laid to rest at Sharon Memorial Park in Charlotte.

Feel free to leave a message or a memory for Mike's family at www.mcewnminthillchapel.com.