Obituary

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 13, Issue 83, 6 May 1949, Page 4

Obituary

MR H. W. WARD

District residents have heen shocked and saddened to learn of the death of Henry Wallace Ward at the Public Hospital early yesterday morning. He was struck by a motor-cycle when near his home and whilst walking across the road on Wednesday evening, in search of material to assist a friend who was in difficulties with his car. He met his death when carrying out one of his many acts of kindness, acts which endeared him to so many of us. .....

“There are few people in this district who have Qot at some time or other, had the value of his advice, his practical assistance and his loyai support,” said one of his friends. “Those of us who have been down on our luck, have experienced acute sadness, or have been short of friends, have been strengthened and encouraged by the knowledge that ‘Ted’ Ward was standing by, ready at all times to lend a hand. He was first to reach us when spirits were at their lowest ebb. His life was devoted to helping his fellowmen, with no thought of reward and no thought of self.” Mr Ward spent his early days in Wellington, came to Whakatane in 1924, and had a business here for many years. He lost his wife about 18 years ago. He was the pioneer spirit in many forward movements. Mr Ward was an early member and Superintendent of the Whakatane Fire Brigade, a foundation and Life Member and Superintendent of the Rangitaiki Plains Dairy Fire Brigade, a Foundation Member and Member of the Legion of Frontiersmen, a long standing member of the Edgecumbe School Committee and the ParentTeacher Association, and a Foundation and Executive member of the Edgecumbe Progressive Association. He was also secretary of the Combined Dental Clinics and a member of the Combined Schools’ Executive.

During the war years he assisted all movements associated with the war effort.

For many years, and up to the time of his death, he was in charge of the garage and blacksmithing departments of the Rangitaiki Plains Dairy Company, and he was recognised as an outstanding technician. His men were loyal to him to a marked degree and he had their respect and deep affection. Mr Ward lived as one who believed the highest religion to be humanism; the highest duty, service—here and now; and that the best prayer is a good deed.

He leaves a daughter, Cherry, his only childf