Michael Frank Ward's Obituary
Michael Frank Ward, known as “Mike” to his friends, passed away on February 26, 2023, at his home in Scappoose, Oregon. Michael was born on June 25, 1949, in Portland, Oregon.
Mike grew up in the Sellwood area of Portland and graduated from Grover Cleveland High School. After graduating, he served in the United States Navy and then attended some college in Denver, Colorado.
In the service, he was deployed to Vietnam during the Vietnam War and served on an aircraft carrier. After he was honorably discharged as a petty officer, he returned to Portland where he worked for Reliance Electric and Reed Electric, where he retired. He built and repaired electric motors and also worked as a superintendent. At one point, Mike and his father ran their own mechanics shop as well. Mike was considered a master auto mechanic.
In his free time, Mike loved to have family gatherings, fish, golf, camp, play poker, have jam sessions with his brothers, and watch NCIS with his daughter. He loved telling jokes and seeing others laugh, as well as laughing himself. Mike was very intelligent and handsome; there were several times he was stopped by people thinking he was Magnum P.I.! He loved spending time in the sun and was an all-around caring, giving, understanding, and loving individual.
He never missed an opportunity to share knowledge he possessed or hang out with his family. The world was a better place because of him, and he will be truly and deeply missed by many.
Mike is survived by his daughter, Brenda (Pedro) of Portland; stepdaughter Shelly (Steve) of Happy Valley; stepson Aaron of Portland; grandchildren Miguel, Taylor, Isabele, and Jacobee; sister Judi Boyd of Troutdale; brother Bennett Ward of West Linn; cousins; some extended family in Minnesota; and many dear friends and colleagues.
Mike is preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin and Dolores (Penny) Ward of Damascus, Oregon; and his brother, Bernie Ward of Warner Robbins, Georgia.
What’s your fondest memory of Michael?
What’s a lesson you learned from Michael?
Share a story where Michael's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Michael you’ll never forget.
How did Michael make you smile?
