Francis (Frank) E. Ward Jr.

Francis (Frank) E. Ward Jr., SMSgt, U.S.A.F. (Ret.), 81, of Cabot, formerly of Bellevue, Neb., died Saturday, Dec. 15, 2012. "The Godfather" Frank Ward has "Gone Home." He endured many maladies in recent years. They have taken away this father of six, friend and mentor to all Scouts and Scouters. During his lifetime, he served his country in the United States Air Force with honor and distinction for 30 years, retiring at the rank of Senior Master Sergeant, having earned the Meritorious Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters and the Air Force Commendation Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters. Subsequently he worked as a civilian employee of the Air Force for 15 more years. He is a veteran of sixty plus years as a Scout and Scout leader. He held numerous positions as a Scout leader. Recognized for his dedication and service, he received the Silver Beaver Award, Award of Merit and the Vigil Honor Order of the Arrow, plus numerous other awards and recognitions. He is preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Emilia Ward of Paterson and Maywood, N.J., and daughter, Eileen of Cabot. He is survived by his wife, Georgiann (Ann) of Cabot; brother, Ronald A. Ward (Carole) of Maywood, New Jersey; sons, Mr. and Mrs. Edward F. Ward (Sheryl) of Cabot, Andrew M. Ward of Longview, Texas and Sean P. Ward (Tonya) of Redfield; daughters, Kristina M. (Ward) Gray (Tom) of Omaha, Neb., Susan A. (Ward) Crank (Todd) of Austin, Texas and 11 grandchildren. His remains will be cremated and the ashes buried at Bellevue Cemetery. A funeral Mass will be conducted at the Capehart Chapel in Bellevue. Immediately following the burial, a memorial service will be held at Camp Wakonda in Bellevue. Donations may be made to the Boy Scouts of America, Mid-America Council in the name of Frank Ward, in lieu of flowers. Funeral arrangements are by Moore's Jacksonville Funeral Home (501)982-2136 and Bellevue Chapel in Bellevue, Neb. Please sign the online guestbook at www.mooresjacksonvillefuneralhome.com.