Kenosha- Milton "Jack" Dean Ward, 82, passed away September 28, 2016 at Wheaton Franciscan All Saints Hospital in the loving presence of his family. He was born June 11, 1934 to Milton A. and Luella (nee Pengra) Ward in LaCrosse, Wisconsin. He graduated from LaCrosse Central High School Class of 1952. Jack married Shirley Mae Schroeder June 21, 1955 and during their 61-year marriage they raised two sons together. They moved to Union Grove when he began work at American Motors Company. He held many positions at AMC starting as a laborer, he became an inspector and later the union steward representative. He served as the treasurer of the executive board for UAW 72 and was then the TRA program director before he retired back on the floor after 37 years. Jack contributed actively to the Union Grove community having served on the Union Grove Village Board and being very involved with the Little League in Union Grove. He facilitated the building of the baseball diamond by the Union Grove Middle School. Jack coached teams for the little league, pony league, and colt leagues in Union Grove. Jack was a talented musician, playing trumpet, guitar, and singing. He once auditioned for Lawrence Welk. Jack was an avid golfer and had 6 holes-in-one to his credit. He also liked to bowl. The real passion in his life was his love for his family.

Jack is survived by his wife, Shirley; their sons, Richard (Lisa) Ward and Randy (Barb) Ward; their grandchildren, Loretta (Ken) Elledge, Richelle (Brad) Waite, Jackson Ward, John (Lili) Ward, Randall Ward II, Peter Carini, Francis (Katie) Collins, Carolyn (Dr. Nathan) Ferda; and their great-grandchildren, Alexander, Ceci, Evalina, Bennett, and one on the way. He is further survived by his siblings, Marjorie (Wally) Edwards and Carol Hansen, as well as his beloved "Little Gus," and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Milton and Luella; and his siblings, Joyce (Al) Dannhoff and Darwin (Marilyn) Ward.

Visitation for family and friends will be held on Tuesday, October 4, 2016 at 9 am – 11 am at Miller-Reesman Funeral Home. The memorial service will begin at 11 am.