GORHAM — Francis C. “Frank” Ward, 89, died unexpectedly on Sunday, Nov. 20, 2011, at a Portland hospital.

Born in Portland on April 2, 1922, he was the son of George H. and Anna Cragin Ward. He grew up in South Portland and was a 1940 graduate of South Portland High School.

Frank began work for Armour and Co. of Portland in 1940 holding positions as truck driver and quality control officer as well as working in the meat plant and on the loading dock. In 1979, he retired due to a work-related injury.

In 1942, he joined the U.S. Army proudly and bravely serving in George Patton’s 3rd Army, Co. F, 1308th Engineers Regiment. He saw action in both the European and Pacific Theaters. His unit landed on Utah Beach a few days following D-Day. In 1946, he was honorably discharged, having attained the rank of S/Sgt.

On Sept. 5, 1953, he married Joan Maynard and they settled in Gorham to raise their family.

During the fires of 1947, he assisted the South Portland Fire Department in their efforts to suppress fires. His interest in firefighting continued and he joined the Gorham Fire Department in 1954. He rose through the ranks to hold the position of captain of Tank 1 at Central Station and retired after 37 years of service.
He was an avid Red Sox fan and enjoyed the time spent with family and friends. He was a member of American Legion Post 0178 and Veterans of Foreign Wars.

His wife predeceased him in 1980.

Surviving are three children, Paula J. Ward of Gorham, Karen E. Ward of Limerick and John M. Ward of Raymond; five grandchildren; one step-grandchild; and two great-grandchildren.

Visiting hours were held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 25, 2011, at the Dolby and Dorr Funeral Chapel, 76 State Street, Gorham. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to: The Gorham Fire and Rescue Dept., 270 Main St., Gorham, ME 04038 or the Animal Refuge League, P.O. Box 336, Westbrook, ME 04098-0336.