News Summary
Bob Ward, a cherished figure in the Long Beach community, has passed away at his home. Known for his dedication to family, education, and his faith, Ward’s legacy will continue to impact many. He leaves behind a large family and a reputation for kindness and service. A viewing and memorial service will honor his life and contributions. His unwavering spirit is remembered fondly by friends and family alike.
Long Beach Resident Bob Ward Dies at 86
Long Beach, California – Bob Ward, a respected community member and prominent figure in Long Beach, passed away at his home in Springville, Utah, on June 16, 2025, at the age of 86. A lifelong resident of Long Beach until his recent move, Ward is fondly remembered for his dedication to his family, education, and faith.
Born on September 11, 1938, in Long Beach, Ward was the son of Karl Moroni Ward and Ethelyn Towler Lindsay. His early leadership skills were evident as he was elected student body president at Longfellow Elementary School and later named student athlete of his class in junior high. Ward continued his journey as a leader at Long Beach Polytechnic High School, where he was elected student body president and participated in basketball and track and field. He graduated from high school in 1956 and pursued higher education at Brigham Young University and California State University, Long Beach.
In 1961, at a church dance, Bob met Josephine Diantha “Diane” Benson, and they married on June 29, 1962, in the Los Angeles Temple. Ward’s commitment to education led him to work as an English teacher and basketball coach at Polytechnic High School for two years before joining his family’s furniture business, Ward’s Furniture Store, in 1963. He and Diane lived for nearly 60 years at their home in the Bixby Knolls district of Long Beach.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Bob was a dedicated member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where he and Diane served three missions, reflecting their deep faith and commitment to community service. In 2021, after undergoing heart surgery, the couple made the decision to move to Springville, Utah.
Bob Ward leaves behind a large family, including his beloved wife Diane and their seven children: James (Rachel) Ward, Bradley (Kimberly) Ward, Brent (Jana) Ward, Bryan (Marybeth) Ward, David (Kathryn) Ward, Kristin (Jamie) Malone, and Kathryn (Timothy) Brandt. He was also the proud grandfather of 37 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren. His legacy of love and service will be felt by many.
Bob was preceded in death by two children, Jeffrey Traver Ward and Stacey Lynn Ward. His passing leaves a profound impact on his family and friends, who will remember him for his unwavering spirit, kindness, and dedication to his community.
A viewing will take place on Thursday, July 10th, from 6-8 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints meetinghouse, located at 996 W. Center Street in Springville, Utah. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during this time. A memorial service is scheduled for Friday, July 11th, at 10 a.m. at the same location, followed by interment at the Springville City Cemetery. For those unable to attend, a link to the memorial service will be available on the Springville Utah Spring Creek Mortuary’s website.
Bob Ward’s life exemplified hard work, family devotion, and community involvement, creating a lasting impact on those who were fortunate to know him.
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Additional Resources
- Press Telegram: Bob Ward Obituary
- Legacy: Robert Ward Obituary
- WBNF: First Ward Addiction Center
- Daily Breeze: Coast Guard Cutter
- Ocala: Bob Ward Remembrance
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Google Search: Bob Ward Long Beach
- Google Scholar: Bob Ward
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bob Ward
- Google News: Bob Ward
