REXTON, NB - It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Walter James Stephen Ward on October 8, 2025, at the age of 80. Walter was born on January 12, 1945, in Saint John, NB, to Archie and Freda (née Hebert) Ward.
Walter met the love of his life and beloved wife, Olive Ward (née Ryan), with whom he shared 58 wonderful years. He was known for his strong will, unwavering determination, and deep love and support for his family and community. Together with his wife, he was a devout member of St. Mark’s Presbyterian Church in Bass River, NB.
Walter worked as a mechanic for DOT in Rexton for 28 years. During this time, he was an active member and president of his local union and served on related committees in Fredericton. Although he was a licensed mechanic, Walter was a jack of all trades and was often called upon to help with a wide range of projects—from building homes & furniture to assisting with simple tasks for anyone in need. He also served his community as a volunteer firefighter in his hometown of Rexton.
After retiring, Walter enjoyed traveling, especially to warmer climates such as Bermuda, Hawaii, Florida, and even across Canada—he loved to drive! His other great passion was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Walter is survived by his mother Freda Ward; wife Olive Ward; daughter Toby (Eris) Daigle; son Tim (Brigitte) Ward; grandchildren, Alexandria (Carlin) Arsenault, Jenna (Jesse) Whalen, Ryan (Janica) Daigle, and Chloé Ward; great-grandchildren Hayes and Miles Arsenault, Morgan and Blaire Whalen, and Marlee Daigle; sister Ann (Jim) Kelly; brothers Ernie (Irene) Ward and Dale (Sheri) Ward; brothers-in-law Gary (Sheila) Ryan, Danny (Lynne) Ryan and Dave Atkinson; Sister-in-law Willah Ryan; many nieces and nephews and special friends John & Della Mazerolle.
Walter was preceded in death by his father, Archie Ward; sister, Eileen (Dave) Atkinson; and sister-in-law, Sheila Daigle.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, from 2:00 – 4:00 PM and 7:00-9:00 PM at Thompson’s Funeral Home in Richibucto. A Funeral service will be held at St. Mark's Presbyterian Church in Bass River on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 11:00 AM. He will be laid to rest at St. Mark’s Presbyterian Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the St. Mark’s Presbyterian Church Building Fund, Diabetes Canada, or the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
Arrangements are in the professional care of Thompson's Funeral Home in Richibucto, NB (506-523-4252).