Michael L. Ward, 80, Lamar

Michael L. Ward, 80, of Lamar, passed away at home on Monday, November 9, 2026, surrounded by family.

Michael was born March 10, 1946, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Hubert and Lelia (Bounds) Ward.

Michael is survived by his wife, Anna Kessens Ward, of Lamar; children, Tina (Robert) Winograd of Pearland, Texas, Amy (Matt) Lockett of Nicholasville, Ky., and Scott (Sarah) Ward of Evansville; grandchildren, Karsten, Kris, Fuller, Sophia, Josiah, Elijah, Lillianna; siblings, John Ward of Lamar, Steve(Patricia) Ward of New Philadelphia, Ohio, and Mary Catherine (Frank) Johnson of Princeton.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Lelia Ward; sisters, Betty Harrison and Sally Henze; and brothers, Pat Ward and David Ward.

Michael was a hardworking, independent man who took great pride in his family and in doing a job well. A skilled craftsman who could fix just about anything, he was happiest when he had something to work on or a reason to be out on his tractor. He had a wonderful sense of humor, a quick wit, and a way of making those around him laugh. He will be remembered not only for his hard work and determination, but also for the laughter, stories, and memories he leaves behind. 

Michael served in the United States Air Force. He worked as a Master Electrician throughout his life. He was a member of St. Francis of Assisi, St. Nicholas Church, Santa Claus Legion Post 242, IBEW Local 16, and was a Kentucky Colonel.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, November 12, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. CST at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Santa Claus. Burial will follow in St. Nicholas Church Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday, November 12, at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Santa Claus, from 9:00 a.m. CST to the time of service.

Memorial Contributions may be made to It Takes a Village.

Online condolences may be shared at www.becherfuneralhome.com