Doug Ward

Ward, Doug

Peacefully left this earth on Friday, July 13, surrounded by his family, who had stayed by his bedside for his last weeks at Allegiance Hospital. Doug was born 79 years ago in Detroit 's Women's Hospital, to Irene and Hubert 'Lefty' Ward. The family lived near Eastern Market but soon built a home in northwest Detroit where Doug attended Schultz Elementary School, then Mumford High School. After high school, Doug enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was stationed in the Philippines, where he worked in Naval Intelligence until he returned to Detroit in the early 60s. A natural entrepreneur, upon returning home, Doug bought two dump trucks and began a gravel hauling company. After several years, he was asked by his retiring father to take over the family's storefront sign-painting business. Once at the helm, Doug grew the company from his dad's 2-man shop whose sole client was The Coca-Cola Company, Detroit, to a large multi-client sign corporation, occupying almost a city block in downtown Detroit. Later, Doug sold his business at the height of its success to pursue his dream of living in the country and farming the land, with the 'Light of his Life,' his wife and soulmate, Peggy.

He started hay farming in Jerome, Michigan, while also commuting to work at Detroit's Budd Wheel Co., where he served as the UAW shop steward, and gained long-lasting respect from employees and management for his rock-solid integrity and approachable style of leadership.

Pragmatic with the ability to envision and bring dreams to reality, Doug possessed persistence, follow- through, and in both personal life and business, a lifelong dedication to truth, integrity and equality.

Throughout life, Doug befriended people from all walks of life, cultures, and creeds. From youth to maturity, he was a gifted debater and negotiator who could objectively listen, analyze and discuss any topic, especially politics, with skill and sensitivity to people's differences. His quick, clever wit and friendly humor brought smiles and laughter to all, even during the roughest of times.

Savvy, hard-working and humble, Doug always considered others first. He lived a life of humility, integrity, service and duty, both to family and country.

Doug is survived by his beloved wife, Peggy; sons Mark (Margie), Matt, Jimmy, Chris (Ellen), Bobby (Carolyn), daughters; Lora (Guy), Sylvia (Chuck), Melissa (Jake), Melanie; sister Gabriole; and nephew Dylan (Tanya) along with grand and great-grandchildren.

The family wishes to warmly thank the doctors and medical staff of the 4th floor CUB unit in Allegiance Hospital for their dedicated and compassionate care of Doug during his illness and final hours. Gratitude is also extended to Desnoyer Funeral Home, Jackson, Michigan, for their thoughtful service to Doug's family.