Erwin R. Ward

OXFORD – Erwin R. Ward, 82, a long time resident of Oxford, died suddenly on Monday, Jan. 15, 2024, surrounded by his family and loved ones. Erwin was born in Augusta on Oct. 20, 1941, the son of William Ward and Nellie (Edson) Ward and was the youngest of four children.

He grew up in Casco where he graduated from Casco High School. He then left to attend Gorham State Teachers College. During his time in school, he met the love of his life, Susan Wouri, and they were married in the fall of 1962. In 1964, they welcomed their first child, Michael Ward, three years later in 1967, they had their second child, Mark Ward, and in 1972 they had their youngest, Scott Ward.

In 1977, Erwin and Susan settled back in Oxford building their forever home. Erwin was, at his heart, a family man, he loved his wife deeply and his children and grandchildren were always at the center of his world. He was a devoted husband, father, and papa with a passion for sports, especially golf. In 2006, he created a family golf course in the front field of his forever home, called East Oxford Highlands. That course served as the meeting point for many gatherings and celebrations. Erwin also loved all New England sports, hunting, fishing (with his great friend Chuck Acebo, Vermont), and genealogy.

In addition to the time spent with his family, Erwin loved his work. His first career was education, teaching science and math in the Lake Region Special Education Program. During that time he made a lasting impact in the lives of his students. However, in the early 70’s he found his niche as a salesman in the building trades, in a field he continued to work in the rest of his life. Erwin, a “legend” in the building industry, worked not just because he had to, but because he truly loved what he did.

Erwin was a generous, kind, and caring man, who gave his help unselfishly whenever and wherever it was needed. Erwin greeted everyone with a smile on his face, and always made sure to leave people with a story or two.

After many years of being widowed, he was blessed to find great companionship with Pat Frye, of Oxford. He found joy spending time with her, while she beat him in many golf and cribbage games, and attending her grandchildren’s sporting events.

Erwin is survived by his sons, Michael Ward, and Scott Ward and wife Julie Ward; his grandchildren, Eli Ward and wife Tracy, Mikeckney Beebe and husband Connor Beebe, Connor Ward, and Lainey Ward; his as well as many more family and friends. He was predeceased by his parents; his wife, Susan; his son, Mark; his siblings, Randall, Franklin, and Carrie; and several other relatives.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the celebration of life on Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024 from 12 – 4 p.m., with a short service at 1 p.m. The celebration will be held at the Silver Spur, located at 272 Lewiston Street, Mechanic Falls.

To leave memories or messages of condolence please visit http://www.chandlerfunerals.com. Arrangements under the care of Chandler Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 45 Main Street, South Paris.

In lieu of flowers,

the family asks donations be made to the:

Mark J. Ward

Scholarship fund

22 N Town Farm Rd.

Oxford ME, 04270