Morris Eugene Ward, age 73 of Wyoming, Minnesota, passed away on Tuesday, January 28, 2025 at his home in Wyoming.

Morris was born on June 13, 1951 to Wesley and Irene (Boeke) Ward in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin. He spent his youth in the area, spending as much time in the natural world as he was allowed, much preferring that to a traditional classroom. Feeling confined and wanting adventure, at the age of 17, his parents signed off and he enlisted in the United States Army. It was 1968, the Vietnam War was raging, and he was quickly on his way, like so many other young men, for two long tours of duty. He was honorably discharged on January 30, 1972.

Upon his arrival home, he hitchhiked his way to Alaska and worked on a salmon boat for the summer. After salmon season, he hitchhiked back home and promptly met the love of his life, Marjorie Danchenko, while assembling tape dispensers for 3M. They were united in marriage in May, 1973. Their marriage was blessed with two children, Naomi and Wesley (Bucky).

After a stint in the Navy – which brought Morris and Marjorie to far away places, including Naples, Italy, where the birth of their first child took place – he wanted to return to Minnesota, where he remained for the rest of his days. He became a heavy-duty diesel mechanic working for many years for the Chisago County Highway Department and finishing his career at Boyer Ford.

Morris enjoyed fishing, hunting, reloading ammo, gardening, discussing/learning about politics and history, and walking his dog. He especially enjoyed the time spent with his children and grandchildren. Twenty years ago he was diagnosed with metastatic squamous cell carcinoma. This required a very invasive surgery, followed by several months of radiation and chemo. It was a long, hard road that impacted him the rest of his life. We are all so thankful to have had him for the last 20 years after all he endured. He will always be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and integrity.

Morris is survived by his wife, Marjorie; children, Naomi Ward and Wesley (Jamie) Ward; grandchildren, Norah and Elliott Austin, Colton and Keira Ward; siblings, Cheryl, Judy, Jeanne, Randy, Tammy, and Tricia; friend, Glenn Austin; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Morris is preceded in death by his parents, Wesley and Irene Ward, and brother, Bruce.

A celebration of life will be held 12:00 pm Saturday, February 8, 2025, at the Coon Lake Community and Senior Center, 182 Forest Rd, Wyoming, MN 55092.

Last Update: Jan 31, 2025 1:02 pm CST