Robert Ward

Robert Anthony Ward passed away peacefully on July 17, 2015 in Royal Oak, Michigan. He was born on December 20, 1945 in Cleveland, Ohio, to Robert E. and Theresa A. Ward. He was the oldest sibling to Richard, Judy Contolini, and Ken who affectionately knew him as “Friendly Bob.” It was a tight family with many, many gatherings with his Aunt Catherine and Uncle Clarence, Aunt Mary and Uncle Ray, and his many cousins. We were one big happy family.

Bob attended St. Margaret Mary Grade School in South Euclid, Ohio, graduated from St. Ignatius High School and John Carroll University, Cleveland, Ohio.  He got his Master’s Degree in chemistry from Indiana University. He chose this school because of its renowned music conservatory. It is believed that he attended more concerts in graduate school than classes. He worked as a chemist at BASF, Wyandotte, Michigan, for many years where he made many lasting friends. He then realized that his interests were not in making soaps and mixing chemicals, but working with numbers.  He returned to school part-time and received his MBA from Wayne State University, Michigan. He acquired his CPA and worked as an auditor for Ohio Bell, now Ameritech. He was transferred to Michigan in the 1980s. He accepted an early retirement from the company and continued his life in leisure, living off of his knowledge of the stock market. He would always say in jest that he was “tragically unemployed.”

Bob was happiest at home doing the things he loved – reading, listening to music, and conversing with his friends over the phone or via email. He was always willing to give advice. And his advice was always sound and appreciated. He not only gave advice, but many times also acted upon it by actually signing his friends up for insurance, placing Amazon orders, etc. His cousin Mary Ann can attest to this. He loved classical music, especially when performed by the Cleveland Orchestra. His extensive record and CD collection gave proof to this. He attended many concerts with his friends while living in Cleveland.

Bob was a member of the Church of the Transfiguration, a Franciscan parish in the Archdiocese of Detroit. Although he was not able to attend mass, he was a loyal supporter. He also had a strong devotion to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel and always wore his scapular, a symbol of Mary’s special protection. It was fitting that his last day was on Our Lady’s holy day.

Bob lived the last 20 years of his life in Michigan, but this did not deter him from staying in touch with his friends of 30-40+ years. These friendships are life lasting and will continue on in spirit. Bob will be remembered for his intelligence, his sense of humor, strong wit, and his generous spirit. His passing has left a hole in our hearts. We love him and will miss him.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Bob’s memory to the Cleveland Orchestra and St. Ignatius High School Annual Fund, 1911 West 30th St, Cleveland, Ohio 44113. Mass of Christian Burial is Saturday, August 22, 2015 at St. Noel Catholic Church, Willoughby Hills, at 10 AM. Burial following at All Souls Cemetery. Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate his life at THE DeJOHN-FLYNN-MYLOTT FUNERAL HOME OF WILLOUGHBY HILLS, 22890 CHARDON RD. (between Bishop Rd. and Rt. 91) SATURDAY 8:30-9:30 AM.