Bertha Jean Ward, 80 of Chetek died February 29th, 2024 at home surrounded by her loving family.

She was born February 1st, 1944 to Glen and Fern Olmstead. Bertha, whom everyone knew as Jean, grew up in Birchwood, Wisconsin.

After graduation, Jean took a job at an insurance company in the Twin Cities. She met Robert Allen Ward and the two married on Dec. 10th, 1970. Together they have one daughter, Holly Brekken. After moving back to Wiscinsin and marrying Bob, Jean was employed by Sykes Meats, Montgomery Ward's and Johnson Truck Bodies. Jean was an avid scrapbooker, spending many hours working on her lovely books. There were many laughs shared at the craft retreats she went on with her friends. Jean also loved to ride ATVs. The more mud the better. She especially loved to challenge herself on rough terrain, small rivers and step hills. She frequently recalled a few "special" trips.

Jean is survived by her daughter Holly (Montey) Brekken of New Auburn, WI, two granddaughters Samantha (Adam) Burgess of Rice Lake, WI and Michaela (Mitchell) Hanson of Carlton, MN, five great-grandsons Shiloh, Rian, Bohanan, Reagan and Ernest, two sisters Lois (Don) Smith and Glenda Hoosier all from Rice Lake and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Robert Ward, her parents Glen and Fern Olmstead and two brothers Lyle and Howard Olmstead.

Funeral Services will be held at 11AM Saturday, March 9, 2024 at Faith Baptist Church in Chetek, WI, Rev. Bruce Schmidt officiating, with interment in Nora Cemetery in Rice Lake. Visitation will be held from 5-7PM Friday at Appleyard’s Home for Funerals and for one hour prior to the funeral service at the church.

Last Update: Mar 04, 2024 1:10 pm CST