Patricia Ward

A resident of Albuquerque since 1955, passed away July 26, 2012 following a brief illness. Pat was devoted to her two sons, Kevin of Los Angeles, CA and Sean of San Antonio, TX. She was absolutely wild about her grandson, Gavin, with whom she shared a very special relationship. Pat is also survived by her sister, Eleanor (Cuppy); four brothers, Mike, Don (Sonny), Elmer, and Terry, all of Kansas City, MO, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Roberta Winkler and Nancy Ragusa. Pat was born July 22, 1929 on the family farm in Clay County, MO. She graduated from North Kansas City High School, and wrote the "Downtown Beat" column for the North Kansas City News. Pat married Randolph Ward on June 03, 1950. They were eventually transferred to Albuquerque where they were active in the Officer's Club. Pat worked many years for the Department of Defense at both Crumley Lab and in the Procurement Department. She overcame the challenge of being a single mother in the 1960's, raising two sons. After Pat retired, she traveled extensively, including backpacking solo through Europe. An avid hiker, she was a long time member of the New Mexico Mountain Club where she held nearly every office including two terms as President. She enjoyed square dancing. She was also a bridge Silver Life Master and enjoyed playing with many partners. Pat was fiercely independent, loving, and never forgot a birthday. She had many true friends who supported her through the years. There will be memorial services in Kansas City and Albuquerque at a later time. The family requests that in lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Sjé�gren's Syndrome Foundation, 6707 Democracy Boulevard,Suite 325,Bethesda, MD 20817 or the New Mexico Mountain Club, PO BOX 3754, Albuquerque, NM 87190 3754.