Mark D. "Whammy" Ward

Mark D. “Whammy” Ward, 65, of Dover, passed away on Tuesday, January 22, 2025 in Ohio’s Hospice-Truman House at New Philadelphia, following a year-long battle with cancer.

Born in Opa-Locka, Florida, Mark was the son of the late Monte G. and Margaret A. (Childs) Ward and a graduate of Carrollton High School. Continuing his education at Stark State College, Mark graduated with degrees in both Design Engineering and Mechanical Engineering.

Mark retired as an Engineer with Battle Motors in New Philadelphia, where he made significant contributions throughout his career in truck manufacturing and custom chassis design. 

Beyond his career, Mark was known for his fun-loving spirit and great sense of humor. His personality touched the lives of many, and he was actively involved in his community. As a member of the First United Church of Christ at Sugarcreek, he also participated in the Partners in Ministry group and other church activities. Mark also showcased his musical talent as a former member of the Schoenbrunn Men's Barber Shop Chorus.

Mark, lovingly known as “Whammy,” had a love for golf and enjoyed playing in leagues at Wilkshire, Oak Shadows, and Zoar golf courses. He was proud to lead the “steering committee” for the annual Santee golf trip, a highlight of his year. Whammy’s love for the game and his warm, friendly spirit will be fondly remembered by all who shared the course with him. 

Mark's interests extended to aviation, where his enthusiasm spanned from WWII aircraft to modern planes. He frequently visited the National Museum of the United States Air Force at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, nurturing his fascination with aviation history. 

He also served tirelessly with his involvement with the Dover Youth Football League, where he served as a former coach and past commissioner. His commitment to supporting young athletes was further exemplified by his role as a statistician for Dover High School football to which he dedicated countless hours of his time.

Mark is survived by his wife of 44 years, Karen S. (Finzer) Ward, whom he married on April 12, 1980. Also surviving are his two sons and daughters-in-law, MSgt. Kyle D. and Kelie Ward of Ramstein Air Force Base, Kaiserslautern, Germany and Kory and Ashley “Kashley” Ward of Dover; three grandchildren, Keegan, Kennedy and Kollins Ward; a sister, Deb (Bob) Brown of Texas; his in-laws, Woody (Connie) Finzer of Stone Creek, Vivian Scott and Tom Staggers of New Philadelphia and Josephine (Steve) DeTorio of New Philadelphia and numerous nieces and nephews.

Friends are invited to call on Saturday, January 25, 2025 beginning at 10 AM in the Geib Funeral Center at Dover where a service celebrating Mark’s life will begin at 11 AM with Pastor Earl Rogers officiating. Burial will be in Dover Burial Park at a later date.

The family requests that memorial contributions be directed to either, Ohio’s Hospice-Truman House, 716 Commercial Avenue SW, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663, or, First United Church of Christ, 526 West Main Street, Sugarcreek, Ohio 44681.