Joan E. Ward, 73, of Old Forge and formerly of Turin, NY, died February 26, 2014 at home with her family by her side after a long battle with cancer.
She was born March 9, 1940, in Lowville, NY, a daughter of Miles H. and Elizabeth (Rocker) Benedict. 
Joan received her education at General Martin Central School in Glenfield, NY. Joan married William L. Ward on May 28, 1960, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Lowville, NY.
Mrs. Ward had a longtime career in banking, retiring from both Adirondack Bank and Community Bank of Old Forge. She most recently worked part-time at Kinney Drugs.
She was a member of the Turin Methodist Church, Beta Sigma Phi sorority for 47 years, Women’s Bowling League, and many other local activity-oriented organizations. Joan enjoyed knitting, cardmaking, theater, SU basketball and sunny vacations in Daytona Beach.
Survivors include her five children, Suzanne (Dan) Sattler of Rochester, NY, Michele (Ron) Grosch of Warren, PA, and Loren Ward, Larry Ward, and Dawn Lenci, all of Old Forge; sisters Jean (Fred) Beck, Judy (Lansing) Boutwell, Linda (Fred) Rivette, and Ruth Ann (Robert) Earl; a brother, David (Donna) Benedict; eight grandchildren, one great-grandson, and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband of 53 years, William, and a brother, Joseph M. Benedict.
The family would like to thank the gracious staff at Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare and Highland Hospital in Rochester, as well as the wonderful staff at Herkimer County Hospice, and the many friends and relatives for their constant love and support.
Her funeral will be held Saturday, March 1 at 11 a.m. at the Turin Methodist Church. Spring interment will be in Turin Cemetery.
Calling hours will be Friday, February 28 from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. at the Dimbleby, Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral Home at 128 Fern Avenue, Old Forge.
In lieu of flowers, friends are asked to consider a donation in Joan’s memory to Cancer Wellness Connections Rochester, 240 Kilbourn Road, Rochester, NY 14618, or a charity of your choice. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
