Obituary of Joel Lee Ward

Joel Lee Ward, 69, of Vestal passed away peacefully on Sunday, February, 11, 2018, surrounded by his loving family while they held his hands and let him go. He was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Grace Ward. Joel is survived by his wife of 32 years, Ada Ward; one daughter and son-in-law Melissa and Mike Karpiak; one step-daughter and son-in-law Mary and DeRue O'Loughlin; sons John Hughes Jr and Sidney Hughes, and step-son Charles Ticknor; granddaughters Brandi, Ashlynn, Michaela, Danielle, Sorelle, Megan, Jessica, and Ashley. Joel was predeceased by his brother Dale Ward. He is survived by brother Raymond Ward; sisters Ruby Ogden, Judy Dunbar, and Alice McNett; his faithful friend Tinkie; special nephew and niece Scott and Connie Allen; special friends Alan Wilson and Linda Martin, several nieces and nephews, and many friends too numerous to list. Joel graduated from North East Bradford in Rome, Pennsylvania in 1966. He worked at IBM through sub-contractors Allied, Johnson Controls, and Tempco; Lourdes Hospital/Sodexho, and the last 18 years he worked at Binghamton High School until his retirement. Joel loved his wood-work, working in the yard and gardening, sunrises and sunsets, and his John Deere tractor. He loved striking up conversations anywhere he went and his frequent visits to Tully's and Denny's. He will be deeply missed by his family who will cherish their memories and smile whenever they think of him. The family would like to thank the nursing staff at Cardiovascular ICU Wilson Hospital, especially Carissa and Stacy for their loving care. Calling hours will be on Friday, February 16, 2018 from 3 p.m. until the time of the funeral service at 4 p.m. at Coleman & Daniels Funeral Home, LLC, 765 Main St. Vestal. The family will welcome family and friends to celebrate Joel's life at the Vestal Center Club (Corner of Powderhouse Rd. and Rt. 26 South), 2409 NYS Rt. 26 South, Vestal Center, NY at 5 p.m. Committal Service will be Monday February 19, 2018 at 1 p.m. at Vestal Hills Memorial Park, Section G. In his memory please spend time outdoors mowing your yard, grilling, hanging out by a bonfire, enjoying a beautiful sunset, or whatever your passion is with those closest to you and smile often while remembering our special father, husband, grandfather, uncle, brother, and friend.