Michael K. Ward, 69, of Bonaparte, Iowa passed away at 12:02 p.m., Friday, September 10, 2021at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.
Mike was born on December 6, 1951 in Keosauqua, Iowa, the son of Alva G. and Laurece (Nelson) Ward. Graduating from Harmony High School, class of 1970, where he met and then married his high school sweetheart Cindy Medaris on April 10, 1971 in Farmington, Iowa. They shared 50 years of marriage raising four children. Mike was a lifelong farmer working for Kaiser Ag, Mount Hamill Lumber, and managed the Farmington Feed Store. Mike and Cindy delivered motorhomes and trucks throughout the country meeting many wonderful people along the way.
Mike enjoyed boating on the Mississippi river where he and his wife Cindy spent many years living on their houseboat. He also enjoyed riding the trails and back roads of the area; often times arriving at the farm to share many good times with friends and family in his shop. Mike loved life and lived it to its fullest; being a jokester, never meeting a stranger, and always making friends along the way. He will forever be remembered for his ornery nature. Mike was very proud of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Out of every thing in life, his favorite role was being called Dad and Papa.
Survived by his wife Cindy and their four children: Kelly (Rob) Purdy of Cape Coral, Florida, Nikki (Jay) Brackensick of Mendon, Illinois, Adam (Jennifer) Ward of Bonaparte, Iowa, and Michelle (Neil) Philp of Farmington, Iowa. Eight grandchildren: Spencer Breitenstein, Maggie Denly, Hunter Brackensick, Kalyn Tuttle, Cooper Philp, Kaley Purdy, Kinley Purdy, and Noah Ward. Five great grandchildren: Xander, Ryder, Lane, and Saylor Breitenstein and Fayth Moore. Also surviving two brothers Donnie (Connie) Ward of Donnellson, Iowa and Jim (Liz) Ward of Oakridge, Oregon and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters: Susan and Dixie.The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Thursday, September 16, 2021, at Schmitz Funeral Home in Farmington. A Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 p.m., at Schmitz Funeral Home Farmington, with Scott Butler officiating.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in his memory to the Bonaparte Fire and Rescue or Farmington EMT’s.
Schmitz Funeral Home of Farmington is assisting the family with local arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.schmitzfuneralhomes.com.
