Nancy Ward

Nancy’s story was one of movement, wonder, and heart. She lived her life with the spirit of an explorer, the warmth of a beloved friend, and the quiet strength of a woman deeply connected to her family and the land beneath her feet.

She passed away having lived a life full of curiosity and connection—both to people and to the wild places she loved so dearly.

Nancy is survived by her partner, four sons, two daughters-in-laws, eight grandchildren, five granddogs, five grandcats, and her treasured siblings—three sisters and one brother. Her boys and their families were the pride and joy of her life. Nothing lit her up more than watching her grandkids discover a love for the trail, and she took great joy in guiding them on their first hikes, just as she had once set out herself—with sturdy boots, a deep breath of mountain air, and a twinkle in her eye.

Nancy spent more than 30 years with the United States Postal Service, where her love for being outdoors and moving with purpose found the perfect home. She built lasting friendships on her routes and with her coworkers—connections she nurtured long after her retirement.

Adventure called to her in every season of life. Whether it was hiking the Grand Canyon with her grandchildren, backpacking through Yosemite and Glacier, or wandering the stillness of Isle Royale and Big Bend, she was never happier than when she was beneath the sky, coffee in hand, wrapped in the embrace of nature and good company. Her trusty Casita camper, affectionately named Consuela, carried her from one breathtaking sunrise to the next.

In 2017, Nancy made her home in Saratoga, Wyoming, and quickly became woven into the fabric of the town. Whether walking or biking through the streets, soaking in the Hobo Hot Springs Pool, practicing Tai Chi, or lending a hand in the community garden, she found joy in simple pleasures and meaningful connections. She filled her days with books, quilting, yoga, pickleball, laughter, and reflection—always learning, always giving, always moving.

She had a deep love of board games, trivia, and clever puzzles. She was the kind of person who challenged others—especially her grandkids—to think differently, to problem-solve with creativity, and to never stop asking questions.

Nancy’s presence was grounding and uplifting all at once. She lived life her way—gracefully, gratefully, and with fierce independence. And through it all, she loved with intention, played with joy, and hiked with purpose.

Her favorite place? Wherever there was good company and a beautiful sunrise.

She will be missed beyond words, but her legacy will echo in the mountains, the laughter of her grandkids, and the peaceful silence of a garden at dawn.