Robert Clark Ward, affectionately known as Bob, passed away peacefully on February 14, 2025, in Huntsville, Alabama, at the age of 89. Born on February 13, 1936, in Black Oak, Arkansas, Bob was the beloved son of Golden and Lucille Ward.

Bob is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Ruth Ann (Spooner) Ward; his loving children, Jennifer Ward Nabors and John Matthew Ward, along with his daughter-in-law, Jane L. Haithcock. He was a proud and cherished grandfather to Isabella Violet Ward, Kerry Collin Nabors, and Keegan Robert Nabors, who lovingly called him "Papa." Bob also leaves behind his brother, Donald Hubert Ward of Round Rock, Texas, and his sister, Joan Ward Taylor of Nicholasville, Kentucky.

He was predeceased by his sister, Leta Doylene Ward of Lexington, Kentucky. Bob served his country honorably as a helicopter mechanic in the U.S. Army. Following his military service, he pursued higher education, first attending Lipscomb University and later earning a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Purdue University. It was during his time at Purdue that he became an avid Boilermaker fan, never losing faith in his team despite their best efforts to test his patience.

Bob's career as an engineer took him across the United States, culminating in his work with Bechtel, where he oversaw the construction of power plants in various locations. It was during a project near St. Louis, Missouri, that Bob met the love of his life, Ruth Ann Spooner, on Friday, June 13, 1969. They married in 1970 and celebrated every Friday the 13th thereafter as a special reminder of their love and shared adventures.

A man of great curiosity and joy, Bob found solace and inspiration in walking, hiking, and exploring new places. He had a deep love for music, often filling his home with the melodies of Ray Charles and Paul Simon. His grandchildren will forever hold dear the memories of him playing alongside them, leaping off retaining walls while joyfully exclaiming, "To infinity and beyond!" They will always cherish memories of their long walks with him, where he shared his love for the outdoors and the simple joy of exploring the world together. Whether exploring wooded trails or simply strolling through the neighborhood, these walks were filled with gentle wisdom, stories, and the kind of love that lingers long after footsteps fade.

Bob was a lifelong member of the Church of Christ, finding strength and community in his faith. He and Ruth built a life together in many places, including Midland and Temperance, Michigan; Madison and Birmingham, Alabama; and Savannah, Texas, before returning to Huntsville, where they have resided for the past 12 years.

A celebration of Bob's life will be held at Twickenham Church of Christ on Saturday, February 22, 2025.

Visitation will take place at 1 p.m., followed by the service at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hacienda of Hope at https://haciendaofhope.org/donate.

Bob Ward's legacy of kindness, love, and adventure will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed