Bob Ward

FREDERICKTOWN — Bob Ward of Fredericktown entered into eternal rest on May 29, 2025, at Ozark Manor after a courageous battle with cancer at the age of 80. He was born on March 31, 1945, in Ironton, Missouri, to the late Ernest Ward and Dorothy (Cook) Ward, and was raised on the family farm in Fredericktown.

Bob is survived by his brother, Steve (Kathleen) Ward; his nephew, Nathan (Katie) Ward; his nieces, Meghan Ward, Katlyn Ward, Susan (Marty) Willis, and Stephanie (Prentiss) Scudder; his great-nieces, BethAnn (Colton) Huskey and SaraKate Willis; his great-great-niece, Charlotte Rae; his great-great-nephew, Carter James; and his stepchildren, Chalice and Debbie. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Pauline "Polly" (Bass) Ward; his brother, Jim Ward; and his stepson, Gary Bass.

Bob graduated from Fredericktown High School in 1963 and served in the National Guard from 1965 to 1971. He worked for Famous-Barr at the warehouse in St. Louis for 34 years and later for Walmart in Festus for 17 years.

Throughout his life, Bob lived in St. Louis, French Village, and Bismarck before returning to his hometown of Fredericktown. He enjoyed farming and was a proud member of Future Farmers of America during his high school years. He also took great joy in helping restore his brother Jim’s 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air. Bob was an avid sports fan who especially loved cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals, the St. Louis Blues, and the Missouri Tigers.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, June 5, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the funeral service at 2:00 p.m. at Cozean Memorial Chapel. Bob will be laid to rest at Hillview Memorial Gardens in Farmington.

In honor of Bob Ward’s beloved niece, Katlyn Ward, who lives with special needs, the family encourages donations or support for JoyKC — a remarkable organization based in Kansas City, Missouri, that is close to their hearts. JoyKC (Joy Kansas City) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals with disabilities by providing inclusive and joyful programming. To learn more or to contribute in Bob’s memory, visit www.JoyKC.org. Share your memories and condolences at cozeanfuneralhome.com