William S. (Bill) Ward
November 18, 1927 - May 8, 2014
WILLIAM S. (BILL) WARD
Social Worker and Child Advocate
On the morning of May 8, 2014 when the rain stopped and the clouds parted, the sun rose and loving husband, father, family member, and friend left us to be with God and his Heavenly family and friends. The ravages of diabetes and kidney failure were more than his earthly body could overcome. He will be truly missed by all who loved and knew him.
Bill was born on November 18, 1927 to John Isaac and Clara Elzi Ward in Salt Lake City, Utah. He attended Columbus School, Irving Junior High, and graduated from South High School. He received his Bachelor of Science Degree, his Master of Social Work Degree, and his Doctorate of Sociology from the University of Utah. He was a member of Beta Theta Pi.
He served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict and retired from the Active Army Reserve with the rank of Colonel. He was assigned to the 328th General Hospital Unit, served as Liaison Officer for the United States Military Academy, was assigned to the U. S. Army Institute of Social and Behavioral Research and was assigned to the Army Family Resource Center at The Pentagon.
After working with the State of Utah Division of Welfare and Social Services in various positions including being the Director of Children and Family Services, he retired after 45 years of service. He was instrumental in developing and directing many changes and reforms in the Child Welfare Department. He wrote legislation to help improve services, helped to develop the Foster Care Program, and was instrumental in creating and implementing the Interstate Compact on Adoptions. He held various positions with the Child Welfare Leagues of Utah and America, The National Association of Social Workers, and a number of other social welfare organizations. Upon his retirement, he served as an accreditation specialist with the National Social Welfare Association on Accreditation and traveled throughout the United States and Canada evaluating social welfare agencies for accreditation. He maintained an active Social Worker license with the State of Utah until his death.
He is survived by his wife Barbara Bernardi Ward, his daughter Mary Ann Ward, and his “dear Italian daughter,” Jaime Horton. Bill is also survived by his sister Patsy Alsop (Iven) and his nephews, nieces, and his cousins as well as Barbara’s loving family including her sisters Mary Jean Powers , Judy Johnson (Phil), and her brother Julius Bernardi (Paula)and their families. He was predeceased by his parents, his brothers Dr. John R. Ward (Norma), Dr. Robert K. Ward (Ivy), and his sisters Margaret Howard, Joan Haynes, and Dorthea Ward.
Barbara and Mary Ann would like to acknowledge and give a special thanks to the wonderful staff at CareSource for their loving care given to Bill the past few weeks. They are angels here on earth.
On Tuesday, May 13th there will be a gathering to honor Bill from 6:00 until 8:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, where complimentary valet parking with be provided on the north side of the building. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, May 14th at 11:00 AM at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 1375 Spring Lane, officiated by Father John Norman.
Interment to follow at Murray City Cemetery, 5490 Vine Street, with full military honors.
Donations may be made to Shriner’s Children Hospital at 1275 Fairfax Road, Salt Lake City, Utah 84103 in his memory.
In Loving Memory
Sorry to learn of Bills passing. I met him well over forty years ago when I too was employed by social services. Later I held positions in the State Office and worked with him on almost a daily basis. He was always professional and willing to hear all sides of an issue. He will be missed by many.
Keith Oram
Salt Lake City, Ut