R. Gayle WardR. Gayle WardR. Gayle Ward, 85, of Rushville, formerly of Frederick, died at 7 a.m. July 25, 2008, at Culbertson Memorial Hospital in Rushville.
He was born July 25, 1923, in Bainbridge Township, Schuyler County, a son of Vern L. and Mary Emily Bell Ward. He married Josephine Haber on March 11, 1947, in Virginia. She survives.
Also surviving are two daughters, Marlys Vala of Springfield and Judy (and Bill) Ebbert of Pittsfield; one son, Dean (and Sandy) Ward of Frederick; and eight grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by one brother, Lloyd Ward; and one sister, Beryl June Hazlett.
He served as an MP in England during World War II with the US Army Air Corps with the rank of PFC.
He attended Ward Number 1 grade school and graduated from Rushville High School in 1941.
He farmed all his life in Bainbridge Township until he retired in 2002.
Private graveside services will be held at a later date at Messerer Cemetery near Frederick with Rev. Matt Haberman officiating. Cremation rites have been accorded. Wood Funeral Home in Rushville is in charge of arrangements.
Memorials may be made to Rushville-Industry High School Track Team, 750 N. Congress, Rushville, IL 62681; or charity of one’s choice. Condolences may be sent to www.woodfh.net.