Mary E. Ward

Mary Elizabeth Ward, age 92, of Maumee passed away on July, 10 2024. Mary was born on February 8, 1932 to the late Albert and Ethel Diethrich in Bellevue, Ohio.

Mary was married at the age of sixteen to Lawrence Allison Ward. Mary and Lawrence moved to Maumee in 1957 to raise their family. Together they had six children: Deb Schlagheck, Pam (Jack) Kiger, Karen (Dan) McCall, Nancy (Bill) Holleran, Roger (Bonnie) Ward, and Jim (Jeannie) Ward. In addition to her children, she had 18 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, husband Lawrence, brother Donald Dietrich, son-in-law Richard Schlagheck, granddaughter Jodi Kiger, and grandson David Ward.

Mary stayed in the family home until December 2023 when she was admitted to Swanton Valley Long Term Living. During the sixty-seven years in her home, three generations made many memories. Her family gathered several times a year at the house for celebrations, including backyard games for the annual 3rd of July fireworks. In addition, Mary loved to drive her conversion van (often towing a pop-up camper) on road trips. In her retirement, she was an avid sewer and crafted elaborate Barbie clothes to sell at the uptown Maumee craft fair. Over the years, she also cared for several beloved cats (Smoky, Miss Kitty, and Max).

Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Swanton Valley Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center (401 W. Airport Hwy Swanton, OH 43558).

Donations will be used for resident activities.