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Mr. Jack H. Ward of Concord, NC passed away Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at Atrium Health, Cabarrus.
Jack's memorial service will be held Friday, March 20, 2026. Visitation begins at 11:00am, located at Wilkinson Funeral Home. Jack's funeral service, officiated by Chaplin Brian Duncan, will follow at 12:30 pm at Wilkinson Funeral Home Chapel. Inurnment will follow at Salisbury National Cemetery at 2:30 pm, honoring Jack for his service as a Vietnam Veteran. Jack's 'Celebration of Life' will continue at Kennedy-Hall, American Legion Post 106, directly following inurnment.
Wilkinson Funeral Home and Chapel: 100 Branchview Drive NE Concord, NC 28025
Salisbury National Cemetery: 501 Statesville Boulevard Salisbury, NC 28144
Kennedy-Hall, American Legion Post 106: 6250 NC Highway 801 Salisbury, NC 28147
Jack was born August 4, 1947 in Kentwood, MI. He lived a life defined by resilience, service, adventure, and deep devotion to his faith and family. From humble beginnings to extraordinary experiences around the world, Jack's story reflects perseverance, courage, and a relentless drive to create a better life for his family. His greatest gift was the extraordinary ability to make everyone feel welcome, comfortable, and instantly part of the family.
Growing up in a rural foster home, Jack's childhood experiences shaped his determination and ultimately guided him throughout his life. Many of his earliest memories were learning the value of hard work all while maintaining honors-level classes and graduating near the top of his class. Jack knew early on, becoming a Corpsman in the U.S. Navy was what he was born to do. At just 17 years old, he enlisted in the Navy, became a Corpsman, and was ultimately assigned to the 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Division of the U.S. Marine Corp. Known as "DOC," Jack served with the Marines during the Vietnam War, where he cared for wounded service members under extremely dangerous conditions in the DMZ, specifically "The Hill of Angels." He carried great devotion to those he served alongside, and the country he loved: The Great United States of America.
Upon returning stateside, Jack met the true love of his life, Karen Joy Ward. In 1975, Jack and Karen married and together they built their life always embracing new opportunities and experiences with their children, Christopher Alan Ward and Stephanie Lynn Ward. Jack had a successful career in the medical and technology industry. His natural leadership ability and strong work ethic led him to positions of increasing responsibility, ultimately to levels as high as National Sales Manager and later, Commander across multiple American Legion posts. Jack also served as the American Legion Riders Director. His unwavering support for the men and women of the military was his calling, only second to a great husband and loving father. Jack's passion for mentorship and teaching helped shape the lives of many.
After surviving a serious heart attack in 1996, Jack gained a renewed appreciation for every day he was given; embracing each day as a gift and cherishing every moment. Reflecting on his life, Jack often wondered, "Did I do right by others? Did I do enough? What would I change - if I could?" He questioned how his life may have been different if he had gone to college under the GI Bill or accepted the opportunity alongside the three other men selected for DUKE University's first Physicians Assistant (PA) program.
Jack gained clarity through his 50-plus years of marriage and 78-plus years of life. He remained grateful for the opportunities he had and the people who stood beside him. Karen remained his partner, his strength, and his greatest blessing until the very moment he passed. Jack's wife, children, five grandchildren, and dedication to the men and women of the U.S. Military, were his greatest passions. He also loved fishing, boating, hunting, motorcycles, gardening, and traveling.
Jack believed that life was ultimately defined by the love we share and the difference we make in the lives of others. His legacy of courage, love, and faith will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him and will continue for generations to come.
Until we meet again in heaven, ''Welcome Home," Dad
Jack is survived by his wife Karen Joy Ward; Children: Stephanie Ward Dellinger and husband Jeremy Shane Dellinger of Waxhaw, NC, and Christopher Alan Ward and wife Stephanie Fox Ward of Concord, NC. Grandchildren: Ellie Ward, Ayden, Asher, Addison, and Annabell Dellinger, and many extended friends and family members.
Memorials may be made to The American Legion Veteran's and Children's Fund, PO Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206 or to The American Legion Post 523, PO Box 1432, Harrisburg, NC 28075.
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Legacy
Jack H. Ward
August 4, 1947 – March 10, 2026
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