Robert E. Ward

HIRAM — Robert Ellsworth Ward, 87, passed away at his home in Hiram with his wife of 65 years by his side. Robert was born in Denmark, the youngest child of Charles and Mildred Ward. After graduating from Denmark High School he served with the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II. On Aug. 16, 1947, he married Helen Kimball of Hiram, where they ended up building their home.

Robert worked at sawmills in Denmark before starting work for Thomas Hammond and Sons in Hiram, retiring after more than 50 years. Robert also ran a saw filing business from his basement for many years. Besides building their house and summer home on Hancock Pond, he built various pieces of furniture for family members. Family was very important to Robert and he was a very loving and supportive husband, father and brother.

In addition to his parents, Robert was predeceased by his brother Charles Jr. He is survived by his wife, Helen; his daughter Allyson and husband James Crawford of Standish; his son Darryl Ward and wife Donna of Hiram; his granddaughter Alisa and husband William Ford of Salem, N.H.; his grandson Adam Crawford of Standish; his great-grandson Devon Ford of Salem, N.H.; his sister, Pauline Reynolds of Gorham; and several nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours will be on March 9, 2013, from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Hiram Community Church, Hancock Ave., Hiram, immediately followed by a celebration of Robert’s life at 3 p.m. A grave side service will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hiram Community Church, c/o Eleanor Twitchell, PO Box 110, Hiram, ME  04041. Online condolences may be expressed at: www.wnyfuneralhome.com