WARD, Joseph Thomas Ward

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Joseph Thomas Ward, who left us peacefully surrounded by the love of his family on Dec. 27, 2025 at the age of 96. Joe was the beloved husband of the late Winnifred Ward (nee Pitre), with whom he shared 71 years of marriage. He was dedicated to Winny and his secret to their long marriage was ‘Keep your wife happy!’
He was a loving father to Vicky Ward (Lloyd Campbell), Randy Ward (Denise Finnie), Jo-Lynn Ward-O’Brien (Michael O’Brien), Becky Ward (Maurice Feldman), the late Joe Ward Jr. (survived by Shirley Ward), Julie Ward, and Lois Ward (Greg Maichele).

Joe lived a full and joyful life, and will be remembered as a very loving man with a special talent for bringing a smile or chuckle to everyone he met. His one-liners were epic! A hard-working man, he had a long career in the grocery business and as a talented handy-man, was always ready to lend a skilled helping hand to family, friends or neighbours- he could fix or build anything! Joe had a deep and abiding love of nature- his canine buddies- especially Nikki; wild birds he spoiled with fancy bird houses and lots to eat; his advocacy for conservation, with 50+ years supporting Canadian Wildlife Federation; his many wildlife rescues. As well, he was a life-long fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs and Labatt’s Blue- ’A beer a day keeps the doctor away!’ being his favorite adage. He loved music- from classical to country and dance- a graceful waltz to Motown boogie. His early passion for flying as a youth was rekindled at 75yrs, when he returned as a pilot with Windsor Flying Club. During Joe’s 28 years of retirement he finally perfected the fine art of ‘putzing’, using this skill at home, in his workshop and in his beloved yard and gardens. He was ever busy, always putzing!
He was a proud grandfather, great-grandfather and great-great grandfather to many and he cherished each one of them. He is deeply missed by many nieces, nephews, extended family, friends and neighbours.
Survived by Bill Nichols, Buster’s childhood friend and accomplice in the Dresden water tower climbing escapades. Bill brought Dad great happiness in recent years through many deep, intimate conversations.
Son of the late Joseph and Lois Ward (nee Keel).
Joe was predeceased by his siblings Margaret, Elise, Miriam, Ruth, David, and Harriet, as well as his brothers- and sisters-in-laws Gerry and Louise Pitre, Reg Pitre, Joyce and Vince Cauchon, and Marilyn O’Flynn (Tom Kipp). He is survived by his sister-in-law, Claire Pitre (wife of Reg).
As per Joe’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Arrangements entrusted to Windsor Chapel-Banwell.
A Celebration of Life will be held in the spring of 2026, after his interment at Heavenly Rest Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Joe’s memory to Iris House (Iris Residential Inns and Services, Windsor) would be greatly appreciated. Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared with the family at www.windsorchapel.com.