Donald "Don"Everett Ward, 83, passed away peacefully on January 16, 2026, at Strong Memorial Hospital surrounded by his family he cherished so deeply.
Born in Seneca Falls on January 22, 1942, Don was the son of the late Everett E. Ward and Marion Parish Ward. He grew up on the family farm, where early mornings, long days, and hands-on work shaped the foundation of who he became. Those years instilled in him a quiet strength, a deep sense of responsibility, and a work ethic that stayed with him throughout his life. A proud 1959 graduate of Mynderse Academy, Don carried the values of his upbringing-humility, perseverance, and integrity-into everything he did.
Don is survived by his loving wife and devoted companion of 66 years, Kathryn Alice Telarico Ward; his daughters, Denise Ward Bianchi and Donna Ward; his son-in-law, Stephen Bianchi; his beloved grandchildren: Alexandra T. Ward and Stephen Bianchi Jr. He was so proud of his family and loved them very much. He is also survived by his two sisters: Beverly Ward Tetzlaff and Jean Ward VanNostrand; brother-in-laws, Ronald Telarico (Patti), Jay VanNostrand; sister-in-law, Patricia Scherer and several nieces and nephews.
Don began his career in 1966, at the Seneca Falls Machine Shop and from there started working for the government, at the Seneca Army Depot, in 1976, where he built a reputation for reliability and dedication. His work later took him to Memphis, Tennessee, in 1989, where he served as a Division Chief overseeing IPE operations, and then to Richmond, Virginia, in 1992 where he remained until his retirement in 2008, after which he and Kathryn returned home to Geneva, where he enjoyed his later years.
A gifted woodworker, Don poured his heart into every project he touched. His hands shaped decks, kitchens, basements, and custom pieces of furniture that now live on as lasting reminders of his creativity and care. His craftsmanship was more than skill-it was an expression of love. Family and friends will forever cherish the pieces he built, each one carrying a bit of his spirit. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
In keeping with Don's wishes, there will be no calling hours or funeral services. A 'Celebration of Life' mass will be held at St. Stephen's Church in Geneva on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at 10 a.m.
"See you in the spring!"
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions, in memory of Don, may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a charity that was very meaningful to him.
