Samuel F. Ward

Samuel Franklin Ward, 72, of Scio, died Wednesday, February 1, 2017 at his home following a period of declining health.

A son of the late Bud Ward and the late Jessie Lee (Sanders) Mitchell, Sam was born April 10, 1944 at Beemis, Tennessee.

Sam was a veteran of the United States Navy and during his service he was stationed aboard the U.S.S. Randolph.  He was retired from General Electric.

He had a passion for the outdoors and nature.  During his younger years Sam enjoyed hunting and he also enjoyed taking long scenic drives through the countryside.  Sam also enjoyed woodworking.  He was known for his dry but wonderful sense of humor as well as for his generous and giving spirit.

He is survived by his wife Marilda (Miller) Ward whom he married on July 20, 1987; his children, Marlaina (James) Olson of North Charleston, South Carolina, Adam Miller of Kent, Amy Lynne Ward of Cary, North Carolina, Amy Marie Cline of Clayton, North Carolina, Samuel Luke Ward of Randolph and Lonnie (Samantha) Maughan of Atwater; his grandchildren, Hollie (Eddie) Genthert, Micheal (Toni) Olson, Gabriella Ward, Madison (Von) McFarland, Carlee, Joseph and Samantha Ward and Delilah Maughan; four great-grandchildren, Alaina, Sophie and Milicent Genthert and Eleanor Olson and a sister, Georgia (John) Riccilli & Family of Springfield Township.

Sam was preceded in death by his parents; his step-father, Harry Mitchell; a sister, Judith Star; a brother, Gerald Ward and his faithful companion, his dog, Buddy.

In keeping with Sam’s wishes there will be no calling hours or services and cremation will take place through the care of the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia.  Inurnment will be held in Randolph Hillside Cemetery West at a later date.

Those wishing to do so may send the family a personal condolence and light a candle in remembrance of Sam by visiting the funeral home website, www.geibcares.com.