Ralph Vincent Ward

Ralph Vincent Ward, 70, was taken into the Creator’s arms, surrounded by his family and friends on July 20, 2017 in Olympia, Washington. He was born on June 23, 1947 to Ralph E. Ward and Emma Bennett Ward in Yakima, Washington. Ralph was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Xavier Valenzuela; and sister, Cabrini Williams. He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Eleanor Valenzuela Ward; daughter and son-in-law, Angelina Ward and Christopher Burkhart Sr.; daughter-in-law, Sarah Brooks Valenzuela; grandchildren, Eaven Hester Ward, Xavier Joseph Valenzuela, Christopher Burkhart Jr., Nevaeh Burkhart; sister, Monica Scharanowske; aunts, uncles, cousins; and many sons and daughters of the heart. Ralph was raised in the Yakima Valley and attended Marquet and A.C. Davis High Schools. He entered the U.S. Army shortly after graduation, served his country as a medical corpsman for two years, and was honorably discharged in 1968. Ralph met Eleanor in 1975 and they married in 1977. They had a time when they were both consumed by drug use but, in 1990, they both found recovery and turned their experiences toward making a loving home for their children and grandchildren. Ralph found joy in his family and home. His eyes lit up every time his grandchildren were present or if he was just talking about them. His family made him proud and happy. Ralph had a soft heart for those in trouble, and many times took time to make someone feel special and loved. He was especially fond of all the four-legged and winged creatures, and took time from his busy life to provide for them as well. He was very enthusiastic about sports and, as a young man, played baseball and boxed for the Army. Later in life, he could be found most days watching and loudly narrating a game of football, baseball, MMA, or boxing match with very colorful language. He will be missed by all of his loved ones, who are thankful for the lessons, gifts and memories he leaves with us. Special thanks to friends and family who have given Ralph a beautiful life. Please leave memories of Ralph or condolences for his family in the Guestbook below.