Gary Lee Ward, 67, passed away peacefully at St. Mary's Hospital surrounded by his loved ones on October 25, 2017.

He was born on September 10, 1950 in Rochester, MN to Howard and Doris (Rehling) Ward. Gary was the youngest of six children. He grew up in Oronoco until he was 11, when his family moved to Rochester.

Gary was united in marriage to Mary Ann Hicks on January 23, 1971 and lived in Rochester where they raised their three daughters and granddaughter, Kendra. Gary and Mary were members of Douglas Methodist Church and attended Autumn Ridge, where he faithfully volunteered at the Saturday night dinners as well as special events.

Gary was employed by U.S. Food until his retirement in 2008. He loved spending time taking road trips with his family to travel visiting loved ones and making special memories. Gary enjoyed bingo, softball, fishing, golf and cheering for the MN Vikings. SKOL!

Gary is survived by his wife, Mary; his three daughters, Stacy (Myron) Brown, Lori (Brian) Crowson, and Cori (Justin) Stock; seven grandchildren, Justice, Bryce, Acacia, Kendra, Aljexi, Jackson, and Gavin; two great-grandchildren, Tatum and Immanuel; sister, Sally (Ronald) Neva; brother, Howard Ward; and many nieces and nephews.

Gary was preceded in death by his father, Howard; mother, Doris; and brothers, Donovan, Dale and Duane.

Memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, November 2 at Autumn Ridge Church.  Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 pm on Wednesday, November 1 at River Park Chapel of Macken Funeral Home and one hour prior to the service at the church on Thursday. Interment will be at Grandview Memorial Gardens.

Macken Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements and online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com