Obituary of Roger E. Ward

Roger Eric Ward, 74, of Francesville, IN went to his eternal home on Sunday, September 3, 2023 after a hard-fought three year battle with cancer.  Roger was born on December 12, 1948 in Francesville to the late Russell Emmett “R.E.” and Lena [Honegger] Ward.  He graduated from Francesville High School in 1966.  On November 16, 1968 he married Sandra J. Long in Francesville, and they were blessed to share 54 years together.

Roger served in the United States Air Force from 1968-1972, with an eight month tour of duty in Vietnam as a loadmaster on cargo airplanes.  He earned the rank of Staff Sergeant before completing his military service.  Roger was a member of the Francesville American Legion Post #228 where he participated in the honor guard.

Roger gave his life to the Lord in 1979.  He was a faithful member of the Francesville Apostolic Christian Church and served in many roles over the years.  His strong faith guided him to invest in the lives of others - including the less fortunate. 

Roger was an entrepreneur and local business owner.  His life work included owning and operating a construction company, a stone quarry, and a hog operation.  Roger also grain farmed for many years.

Roger enjoyed playing golf as well as spending time with his friends.  Roger cherished wintering with Sandi in Florida and being surrounded by his family.  He was a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather who strongly desired to see his family walk the streets of gold with him someday.

He is survived by:

Sandra J. [Long] Ward, Francesville, IN Wife

Erica (Evan) Christensen, North Judson, IN Daughter

Amber (Philip) Leman, Francesville, IN Daughter

Amanda (Rustin) Meister, Lafayette, IN Daughter

Erin (Bryce) Drayer, Centerville, TN Daughter

21 Grandchildren: Aidan and Macie Christensen; Ethan, Camille, Brie, Tate, and Josie Leman; Micah, Clay, Joshua, Moriah, and Colt Meister; Sydney, Brant, Nolan, Elliot, Theodore, Rhett, Knox, Celine, and Ransom Drayer

Nola Wuethrich, Francesville, IN Sister

Many Nieces and Nephews

Preceded in death by:

Russell Emmett “R.E.” and Lena [Honegger] Ward, Parents

2 Infant Grandchildren

Barbara (David) Wuethrich, Sister

Dale (Anne) Ward, Brother

Mary Ann (Joe) Sanders, Sister

David (Karen) Ward, Brother

Richard Wuethrich, Brother-in-law

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 AM EDT Saturday, September 9, 2023 at the Apostolic Christian Church in Francesville with Ministers of the Church officiating.

Burial will take place at Roseland Cemetery in Francesville.  The American Legion will conduct Military Graveside Services.

Visitation will be from 3-8 PM EDT Friday, September 8, 2023 at the Apostolic Fellowship Center in Francesville and one hour prior to services at the church Saturday.

Memorial Contributions may be made to LifeWise Academy West Central.

Online Condolences may be offered in the guestbook at www.frainmortuary.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary Querry-Ulbricht Chapel in Francesville.