Resident of Alameda

Gary Ward, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 22, 2024, surrounded by his family and closest friends. He was 73 years old.

Born on November 24, 1950, in West Virginia, Gary moved to Alameda, California, with his family at just three days old, where he would spend the majority of his life. Gary was an only child raised on Bay Farm Island by his loving parents, Sam and Ann Ward.

Gary attended Otis Elementary, Lincoln Middle School, and graduated from Alameda High School in 1968. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, proudly serving for three years, including a tour in Vietnam. Gary later earned his Bachelor's degree from Golden Gate University.

Gary met his future wife, Patti, at a local church group in 1971. After only a month of dating, Gary proposed. They married six months later and spent the next 52 years building a life filled with love, laughter, and devotion. Together, they raised three children, Lindsay, Adam, and Andria.

Gary had a long and fulfilling career at AC Transit, working as a scheduling analyst and department manager for 35 years. After retiring, he continued to share his expertise, working as a consultant for San Diego TMD. Additionally, he enjoyed a part-time job ushering for the Oakland A’s, Oakland Raiders, Golden State Warriors, and various celebrity concerts at the Oakland Coliseum.

A devout Christian, Gary found his church home at Bay Farm Church, where he was active in the men’s group and served as an usher. An avid skier, he enjoyed many quick weekend trips to Tahoe with his children, family, and friends. He was also involved in the local community, participating in events such as Kids Night Out with the Alameda Boys & Girls Club, Alameda Little League, and the Old Alamedans Graduate Community. Gary’s involvement in various activities and events led to many lifelong friendships.

Gary’s proudest accomplishments, however, were always his family. His love and commitment to them were evident in everything he did. He never missed a single West Coast dance recital where his daughters –and later, his granddaughters – performed. He was a coach and active participant in his son’s sporting activities, always fostering a love of sports, fairness, and teamwork. Whenever possible, he could be found cheering on the sidelines of his grandchildren’s baseball, basketball, soccer, and sailing events.

Family downtime was sacred to Gary, whether it was movie nights, playing darts, barbecues, or lively game nights. His quick wit and knack for making people laugh brought joy to everyone around him.

“Pops” never took for granted the opportunity to walk his grandkids to and from school, always finding ways to make every moment memorable. He made each grandchild feel like the “favorite” by spending one-on-one time, forming important bonds, and creating memories they will carry for the rest of their lives. Every visit to Lolli and Pops’ house ended with him saying “Love you, mean it.”

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Sam and Ann Ward. He is survived by his wife, Patti; his children, Lindsay (Joey), Adam (Hillary), and Andria; his grandchildren, Brayden, Aubrie, Natalia, Cassius, Gianna, Rio and Meredith Anne; numerous Rodriguez family relatives and the closest of friends who are considered family. His legacy of love, service, and laughter will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Please contact family for details of Gary’s Memorial and Celebration of Life.