Ed Ward

Thomas Edward Ward, the son of William Raymond and Jessie Margaret (Noble) Ward, was born October 11, 1934 in his parents home on a farm in Union County, Iowa. Ed entered eternal rest on Friday, May 5, 2006 at Greater Regional Medical Center in Creston at the age of 71 years, six months and 26 days.
Ed was raised in Union County and attended the Creston Public Schools. He played Basketball and was an All-State player his Junior and Senior years. Ed graduated as his Class President in 1952. Following graduation, Ed attended Drake University in Des Moines.
In 1955, Ed began his working career at the Creston Motor Company washing cars. In 1957, Ed was drafted into the United States Army and served his country until 1959. Upon his return to Creston, Ed continued to work for Creston Motor Company. He retired as a Sales Associate on April 19, 2006 after 51 years of service. Ed volunteered many hours to be a long-time Sponsor for Creston Motor Company at the Punt, Pass and Kick competition.
Ed enjoyed coaching Little League Baseball for many years. He also helped the 10,000 Crestonians with the Fireworks Display at McKinley Park. Eds favorite hobby was being part of the Chain Gang during the high school football games for 48 years. Ed was a member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church and the Elks Lodge in Creston.
Ed married Radine Loraine Grothen (Bochart) on November 24, 1973 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church. He was a very active parent and grand-parent. Ed spent many hours working in his yard and took great pride in the appearance of his property.
Preceding Ed in death were his parents, two brothers: Jim and Bob Ward and a brother-in-law, Larry Baker
Ed is survived by his loving wife, Radine Ward of Creston; two daughters: Joni (husband Jim) Fizer of Thayer, Iowa and Judy (husband Steve) Bradley of Creston, Iowa; by a son, Jay (wife Brenda) Bochart also of Creston, Iowa. Six Grandchildren: Woody and Anthony Darland; Lori and Eric Bradley; Kyle and Adam Bochart; two Great-Grandchildren: Haley and Hannah Darland. Ed is also survived by his two sisters: Mary Ward of Burlington, Iowa and Margaret Baker of St. Edward, Nebraska and many nieces, nephews and friends.