Date of death: 8/26/2021
Saint Meinrad Class: O 1960
Eugene Lee Ward, 87, was born on May 11, 1934, in Detroit, Michigan, and died on August 26, 2021, from complications of Parkinson’s Disease. He was predecessed by his parents and three sisters. Left to carry on his legacy of love and kindness are his wife, Jan Wiest Ward, siblings Phyllis Knight, Carol Jamieson, Anne Roberts, David Ward (Jeannine), James Ward (Judy), son John Ward (Norma), daughter Laura Goldstein (Meir), and granddaughter Ella Ward. Most important to Eugene was his family.
Eugene was a loving presence, quiet and unassuming. He served as a Roman Catholic and Episcopal Priest, and was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. As an organ builder and bookbinder, his artistic and mechanical skills were exceptional and his handiwork exemplary. Highlights of his organ building career include rebuilding the organ at St. Meinrad Archabbey in Indiana, the organ at the neighboring Sisters of Saint Benedict convent in Ferdinand, Indiana, and removing, redesigning, and installing the organ of Christ Church Cathedral, Louisville, for St. Luke’s Episcopal in Kearney, Nebraska.
Eugene’s life was full of serendipitous coincidences, which gave him great delight in retelling. He was passionate about music and beauty in all of its forms. He loved walking, cooking, and was an avid reader. Eugene was gifted with the grace of simplicity and the gentle ministry of kindness. For many years, he was a Hosparus volunteer and had an innate ability to make others feel peaceful and comfortable. The family feels deep appreciation and thanksgiving for all those who helped during this final passage, especially the Hosparus team and caregivers.