Obituary of James W. Ward

James W. Ward, husband of Linda I. Ward (Hughes) entered into rest on September 7, 2017 with his wife by his side. He was born February 21, 1950 in Lockport, New York. He was the son of Wallace T. Ward and May E. Ward (Williams). Jim graduated from Lockport High School in 1968 and earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Public Relations from Bowling Green State University in Ohio. Jim served over 22 years for the New York State Senate and was an elected Niagara County Legislator for 8 years. He was appointed by New York State Governor George Pataki to the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission for 4 years and also held the position of Town Justice for the town of Newfane. Additionally he founded his own packaging design business. Ward played an active role in the community serving as the director on a number of non-profit boards including: Eastern Niagara Hospitals, the Health Association of Niagara County, the Niagara County Community Action Program, the Niagara County Historical Society, the Town of Newfane Tourism Board, the Newfane Lions Club, the Krull-Olcott Development Committee, the Olcott Beach Community Association and the Olcott Beach Carousel Association. Jim was presently serving on the NCCC Board of Directors and was a past President. He also enjoyed being a member of the Tuscarora Club of Lockport. Jim was enthusiastic about coaching soccer, baseball, basketball and announcing at little league football games when his children were younger. Husband of Linda J. Ward (Hughes) and father of James William Thomas Ward, Tracey Ann Rebecca Ward (Baron) and Sean Robert Ward. Grandfather to Sean Michael Ward, Skylar James Ward, Steven Wallace Ward, Lydia Jean Baron, Alba May Baron, and Claire Avery Baron. He was also Uncle to several nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends may call Monday, September 11, 2017 from 4-8 PM in Prudden & Kandt Funeral Home, 242 Genesee St., Lockport where funeral services will be held Tuesday, September 12, 2017 at 10 AM. Interment will be in Cold Springs Cemetery. Donations may be made to Hospice House, 4675 Sunset Dr., Lockport, NY 14094. Visit pruddenandkandt.com.