All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

William R. “Rob” Ward

William R. “Rob” Ward, 81, left this world behind on April 6, 2019, to take his place on Heaven’s Main Street.

Born in Buckhannon, W.Va. on Aug. 24, 1937, he was the son of the late Sterling “Bud” Ward and Naomi Hacker Ward.

Left to cherish his memory are two sons: William Randall Ward of Zurich, Switzerland and Steven David Ward of Buckhannon, W.Va.

Rob was preceded in death by one brother, Samuel Ward.

Rob honorably served in the Army National Guard during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He will best be remembered as owner and operator along with his former wife Sue of the family business Ward’s Cleaners.

Rob spent his retirement years continuing to serve citizens of this community working for Anita’s Flowers, Walmart and volunteering his time to the Salvation Army.

The family wishes to give special thanks to Rob’s caregivers at the ERCC in Elkins, W.Va.

His request for cremation has been honored.

A memorial gathering will be held Sunday, April 28, 2019 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Jerry Murrell officiating.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.polingstclair.com. Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

My Buckhannon publishes obituaries free of charge as a courtesy to the family. Readers can support our publication by becoming a premium member.

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