Douglas Victor Ward , Silver Springs, Fl. 75 years young. Passed Peacefully September 19,2021 Born in Hackensack New Jersey to Dean Ward and Doris ( MacGowen) Ward . Doug moved to Dayton Ohio with his large family where he graduated from Fairview High School.. Doug went into the Army in 1964 and proudly served three tours in Vietnam, the last two with the 173rd Assault Helicopter Company as a Door gunner and Crew Chief. He received the Vietnam Service Medal with Two Bronze Service Stars, National Defense Service Medals, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Air Medal with 5th Oak Leaf Cluster, Soldier's Medal and Purple Heart during His Service. He remained in contact with his Helicopter Unit and Brothers and Loved them Dearly. He was an active member of The Vietnam Helicopter Crew Members Association since the 1990's attending annual Vietnam Veterans Reunions and served on the Board in different capacities over the years.

He was very happily married to his Sweetheart, Soulmate and Life Partner Leilah (Ash) Ward for 29 years and they shared 33 years together.

He spent many years in a Motorcycle club where he ministered to other clubs in the area. He loved riding his motorcycle, collecting knives, fishing and spending time with family and friends. Doug never met a stranger...he was larger than Life in his Heart and Personality and leaves behind a massive amount of friends.

He was always so proud of his Children and Grandchildren and bragged about them all the time. He always said he felt very Blessed and Fortunate to have Children and Grandchildren that completed him so.

He was preceded in death by parents Dean and Doris (MacGowen) Ward, Grandparents Victor and Lois Napolitano, Sister, Susie Bogart, Brother Pete Ward and Cousin Michael Ward.

He is survived by his Loving Wife, Leilah Ash Ward, Daughter Carrie Ward (Tim Smith), Son James Smith, Son Timothy Smith (Jessica McKinney).

He also leaves behind his Beloved Grandchildren Gabrielle Smith, Gavin Balevre, Timmy Smith and Nico Smith all whom he Adored and Loved so very much. In addition he leaves behind his loving family members: Sister Nancy Jo Ward (Rick Sweet),Niece Sierra Peltcher, Sister Pamela Ramsey and Sister Deborah Costello, Nephew Sean and Niece Heather Costello, Niece Amanda Bogert Hernandez, Nephew Brandon Bogert . Cousins Mary Ward, Betsy Ward, Arthur Ward and Wendy Ward Miller. And one of His Biggest Pride and Joys, Niece (Captain) Melissa March/USAF. He has numerous Grand Nieces and Nephews as well.

There will be a private ceremony and at a later date to be determined a Memorial Ride or Celebration of Life Will be Announced.

We are so grateful for the time We had and the Memories We made....You Will Be Forever in Our Hearts. Thank You for You Service to this Country as We Give You A Final Slow Hand Salute. May You Rest Peacefully Now as You Have No More Battles To Fight

In lieu of Flowers the family is asking for donations to the Gary Sinise Foundation

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