Craig Andrew Ward

Craig Andrew Ward was the love of my life and my best friend.  He was born March 21st, 1963 in Port Jervis, NY.  He tragically and unexpectedly passed away at the age of 61 on November 11th, 2024 in Phoenix, AZ. I met Craig on May 21st, 1995, on a beautiful sunny afternoon in San Diego, CA and we were married June 11th 2005 in Laughlin, NV. Combined, we had a total of six children: Brian, Garrett, Alex, Melody, Wesley, Stacey and a Grandson, Nick.

Everyone who knew Craig loved him.  He was adventurous with a great sense of humor, a big heart and a big love of family, music, cars and dogs. Craig could also fix just about anything and had a vast knowledge, from what he would describe as hundreds of technical, trade school and college courses. Most evenings and weekends were spent helping someone with their car or playing guitar with his beloved husky, Timber, at his side. Craig started playing guitar at the age of 11 and was extremely proficient. He also played drums and piano. He loved hard rock and heavy metal.  His two favorite bands were Led Zeppelin and The Warning. 

Craig spent the last 25 years of his life working in the electrical field, mainly in management, but rarely being able to sit still and could often be found helping with a project or repairing equipment.  The last five years he worked for Wagner Smith Equipment which he found challenging, and he loved his employees and coworkers like family.  Anyone who knew or worked with Craig knew his favorite sayings were “Read!” and “Experience is what you get when you didn’t get what you wanted.”

Craig also had many other hobbies and interests and although Craig is gone, he will live in our hearts forever.

Craig is survived by his wife Diana Jan Septon-Ward, his children Garrett Ward, Melody Ward-Wallace and her husband Erik Wallace, Wesley Ward, Stacey Ward, Grandson Nick Wilson, Mother Jean F. Ward, Brothers: Gary K. Ward, Kevin T. Ward and Scott F. Ward, Sisters: Cynthia Ward-Lewis, Suzanne Klass and Jennifer Rose along with many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews from both sides of the family.

A Celebration of Life is being planned for January and we will be reaching out to family and friends with the details soon.