Robert "Bob" Frank Ward, age 80, passed away unexpectedly Friday, November 26, 2021 in Big Rapids. He was born March 3, 1941 in Pogy, the son of Frank and Laura (Denniston) Ward. After graduating from Evart High School in 1959 he joined the United States Army, serving two years in Germany. When he returned home, he married Kathleen Stewart on October 7th at St. Philip Neri Catholic Church in Reed City. Together they made their home in Pogy, MI. Bob spent most of his working career at Michigan Knife, Simonds Int., and Cargill, retiring in 2007. He loved to hunt, fish and share his love of the outdoors with all his family and friends. As a devout Catholic, he was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Big Rapids. He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Kathy; children, Cathie "Kitten" (Art) Reed of Big Rapids, Chris (Jim) Canham of Mecosta, Deb (Steve) Mishler of Evart, Ron (Holli) Ward of Otsego; eight grandchildren, Ben (Melissa) Reed, Tyler Mishler, Erik Tarbell, Matt Mishler, Jake (Teagan) Tarbell, Derek Ward, Colby Ward, Hannah Reed; two great-grandchildren, Rylee and Xander Reed; brother, Jim Ward of Hersey; sisters, Rosie (Dave) Wirth of Hersey, Betty Smith of Evart; many nieces and nephews. Bob was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Glen Ward. Mass of the Resurrection will be held 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 7, 2021 at St. Mary Catholic Church in Big Rapids with visitation an hour prior. Father Jegar Fickel officiating. The family will also greet friends 5:00-7:00 p.m., Monday, December 6, 2021 at Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids. In lieu of flowers the family is asking for Masses to be said for Bobs soul. Masses are available by calling St. Mary-St. Paul Parish. Care and arrangements by Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Visitation Monday, December 6, 2021 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home 13985 Northland Drive Big Rapids,Michigan 49307 Visitation Tuesday, December 7, 2021 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM St. Mary Catholic Church 1009 Marion Ave Big Rapids,MI 49307 Mass of the Resurrection Tuesday, December 7, 2021 11:00 AM St. Mary Catholic Church 1009 Marion Ave Big Rapids,MI 49307