Robert J. Ward

Robert Ward

Robert J. “Bob” Ward – 97 – of Canandaigua, NY, formerly of Hornell, died Monday morning (November 8, 2021) at Thompson Hospital in Canandaigua, following a brief illness.

Born in Hornell on October 1, 1924, he was the son of James & Margaret (Callahan) Ward.

Bob grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1942).  Following high school graduation, he enlisted in the US Navy serving his country as a Radio Operator on a Liberty Ship during WWII.

Following his honorable discharge from the US Navy, Bob returned to the Hornell area and began a career working in the bookkeeping department of the former Erie Railroad, Erie Lackawanna Railroad and Conrail.  While working for the railroads, he resided in several locations including Hornell, Cleveland, OH and Philadelphia, PA.  He retired in 1997 and has resided in Canandaigua since 2009.

While living in Hornell, Bob served as an Elder at the First Presbyterian Church and was a life member of the Hornell American Legion.  Throughout his lifetime, he enjoyed playing golf, hunting and spending time at his hunting camp in Hartsville, NY.  In recent years Bob enjoyed woodworking and making beautiful furniture.

He was married in 1949 to the former Jeanne Geary who died in 2000.  He was also preceded in death by his son, James J. Ward who died in 1957; along with 5 sisters and his dear friend, Dorothy Reitnauer.

Surviving are 2 daughters, Bonnie (David Blanding) Salter of Canandaigua and Roberta “Bobbi” Ward of Hornell; 4 grandchildren, Marianne Dineen, Melissa McCarthy, Kyle Wengren and Erik Wengren; 3 great-granddaughters, Lavery dineen, Addison McCarthy and Robin Boyd; several nieces & nephews.

At Bob’s request there were no calling hours.  Private services were held at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating.  Burial was in Rural Cemetery, Hornell.

Bob’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Hornell Alumni Association, PO Box 135, Hornell, NY 14843.

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