Robert William Ward

Bob was born in Chicago, IL to Horace and Dorothy (Eichwald) Ward on May 1st, 1947. He graduated from high school in Japan, and joined the US Navy in 1965 and retired as a CPO in 1985. He earned his Master's Degree in Human Resources-Education Development. Bob was a fan of Nebraska Husker football where he liked to coach from the comfort of his recliner where he would discuss the plays by phone with brother-in-law James (Rhonda) Itzen in Lincoln, NE.

Bob is joined in Heaven by his mother and father, and two sons (Robert and Kenneth).

Bob is survived by his wife, Janet (Itzen), and 4 step children Kenneth Balke, Melynda Balke, Russell (Marian) Balke, and Heather (David) Woodruff; brothers Carlos (Bev), Mark (Karen), twin sisters Sheila Reyes (Philip), and Sandy Doughton (Chris). Bob also leaves behind a daughter-in-law, Lisa; and a multitude of grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Memorial Service will take place at 2:00 pm on Thursday, November 2, 2023 at Shepherd of the Woods Lutheran Church, 7860 Southside Boulevard (Service Road), Jacksonville, FL 32256.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.neptunesociety.com/location/jacksonville-cremation for the Ward family.