Richard "Whitey" Ward, 90, of Oregon, Ohio, went to be with our Lord on September 8, 2026. He passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family.

Whitey was born on December 13, 1935, in Toledo, Ohio. He met and later married Carolyn (Smith) Ward on November 1, 1958. Together, they shared 51 years filled with love, family, friendship, and adventure. Whitey and Carolyn could often be found camping and canoeing with family and friends. Whitey especially looked forward to his annual "fishing" trip with his brother-in-law and partner in crime, Earl Smith. One of the Family's favorite traditions was driving to Florida in the spring, enjoying the sights along the way and relaxing by the ocean.

Whitey was incredibly proud of his many athletic accomplishments and loved staying active throughout his life. In his younger years, he enjoyed running area 5K races. Later he moved on to weeklong bicycle tours that allowed him to explore the United States on two wheels. Along the way, he made many dear friends and always looked forward to gathering with them to plan their next adventure. He also shared his love of cycling with close friend and family member Bob Steinline.

Always eager for his next adventure, Whitey continued to challenge himself well into his 70s, enjoying whitewater rafting, kayaking, and zip lining. Whitey truly found a special passion when he discovered yoga. He volunteered as an instructor for many years, and while teaching at the Eastern YMCA, he inspired so many people that his classes eventually had to move to a larger space.

In his quieter moments, Whitey enjoyed meeting with fellow railroad retirees over coffee and attending Spirit and Truth Church in Oregon. He treasured his family, his friendships, and the many experiences that made his life so full.

Whitey was preceded in death by his soulmate and wife of 51 years, Carolyn (Smith) Ward; his mother, Ada (Traufler) Ward; and his siblings, Dolores Patton, Walter Ward, Barbara Centella, and Geraldine Ward.

He is survived by his daughters, Penny (Jim) Bollin and Pamela (Paul Soltis) Buck; grandchildren Ethan Bollin, Kayle (Emily) Bollin, Chelsea (Philip) Iler, Kaylee Buck, and Kyle Buck; his sister, Marilyn Williams; and many great-grandchildren, in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

He will also be deeply missed by his "fur kids," fellow french-fry-eating enthusiasts Wren and Timmy, who were clearly very special to him.

Whitey leaves behind a lifetime of memories, adventures, laughter, and love. His family and friends will forever remember his adventurous heart, generous spirit, and the joy he brought to the people around him.

In keeping with Whitey's wishes, there will be no funeral service. The family is planning a Celebration of Life in October.

Arrangements were entrusted to Eggleston Meinert & Pavley Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Northwest Ohio.