WARD FERGUSSON

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WARD FERGUSSON It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Ward Fergusson on January 19, 2015 at Grace Hospital in his 87th year. Left to mourn is his loving wife Megan of 36 years and his children Kathy, Kim (John), grandchildren Tara (Paul), Meagan, Steven and great-grandchildren Parker, Ayson and Mercedez and his sisters Ruth Godwin, Muriel Botterill, Florence Hubbard and Alice Jones and numerous nieces and nephews. Ward was predeceased by his parents Robert and Maggie Fergusson, brothers Bert, Ross, Keith, Bill, Logan and Wes and sisters Jean Nixon, Carrie Nixon and great-granddaughter Jaedyn. Ward was born on the family farm near Rocanville, SK on November 5, 1927 and was part of a large family of six sisters and six brothers. Being raised on a farm in the 1920s and 1930s, Ward experienced the usual hardships of the times but the Fergusson family life was a happy one, full of fun, love and music. After schooling in the Rocanville area, Ward set out to join the workforce and make his way in life. Ward worked in Yorkton, SK for a period of time, eventually finding his way to Portage la Prairie in the 1950s. Ward worked for several years with Portage Creamery as a delivery person. He always said that he not only delivered milk and cream but he also delivered sunshine and happiness. Portage quickly became his adopted home and most people in town knew "Fergie". He worked for the Portage la Prairie School Division (Laverendrye School) for many years until retirement in 1993. Upon retirement, Ward sold Watkins products until 1997, when he and Megan relocated to Winnipeg. Ward had a gregarious, warm and friendly manner, quickly engaging people and developing many friends. Sports, music, gardening and just plain being with people were his loves. Ward was a prominent fastball pitcher for many years with the Portage Dodgers and enjoyed curling during the prairie winters. He had a competitive nature; winning was his strong preference but he accepted losses gracefully and regardless of the result, was everybody's friend after the game. With the coming of fall, Ward was off to Delta Marsh to do some goose and duck hunting with his good friend Peter. While in that area, Ward would help Peter with harvest; he never lost the love of the farm. Ward travelled the road of life well and a quality person has left our midst. He made a positive impact on the many lives he touched and will be missed dearly by his wife Megan, surviving family and many friends. Somewhere the Fergusson family band is tuning up for a musical session and the party is about to start. In compliance with Ward's wishes, there will be no funeral service. Cremation has taken place at Cropo Funeral Chapel. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CancerCare Manitoba or a charity of your choice. The family would like to thank the staff at Grace Hospital 3 South, Dr. David Breckman, Dr. Daniel Chin and Home Care for their wonderful support. A special thanks to Dr. St. Godard (Palliative Care) for making Ward's final days more comfortable.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 24, 2015