Dennis Ward

Dennis R. Ward, age 64, of Marshall, WI passed away on May 25, 2025. He was born on May 10, 1961, to Arthur and June (Rollert) Ward.

Dennis graduated from Marshall High School in 1979. On September 16, 1989, he married Kris Coughlin, and together they built a life filled with love and family. Over the years, he worked at Perry Printing and Goodyear before retiring from Central Ceiling Systems—but his most cherished role was being a dad, and even more so, a grandpa.

Dennis was a straight shooter—honest, witty, and unapologetically himself. He never changed to fit anyone’s expectations, and those who knew him admired him for it. When it came to the people he loved, he would do anything for them without hesitation. He’d drop everything in an instant to lend a hand, offer advice, or just be there. And while his tough exterior never wavered, his grandchildren had a way of cutting right through it—wrapping him around their fingers in a way no one else ever could.

Dennis’ greatest joy was spending time with his family, whether cheering on his children and grandchildren at their various events or coaching his kids' basketball teams over the years. He was the ultimate road trip driver, often driving through the night to make sure the family arrived at their destination. Poolside frozen strawberry daiquiris and sweet treats were always on his itinerary, ensuring every trip was filled with fun, laughter, and friendly family competition.

As time passed, family vacations evolved into cross-country travels with Craig to watch Cameron play basketball in Vermont, visit Alyssa in New York, and see Blake in Pennsylvania. No matter where life took them, Dennis was endlessly proud of his family and never missed an opportunity to share their accomplishments.

Dennis enjoyed sharing his hobbies with his children. In his spare time, he looked forward to hunting with his sons on the farm he and Kris purchased in 1992. This past hunting season was especially memorable, as he had the opportunity to hunt with his grandson, Cade, for the first time. He enjoyed convincing the whole family to join him in traveling to play Bingo up north, even picking his granddaughter, Layla, up early from school so he had someone to join in on the fun.

Most recently, Dennis and Kris loved spending time at their cabin with family and many friends. He tackled remodeling projects and built a cabin for his family to enjoy for generations to come. He was always busy up north, whether it was playing Bingo, staying up late playing Euchre, or joy riding around with his grandkids on the UTV and boat. He could often be found helping others in the neighborhood with cabin improvement projects followed by relaxing at Bill’s Bar.

He will be remembered for his eagerness to ‘clean up’ any ice cream cone, his unwavering willingness to lend a hand, his strong work ethic, and, most of all, his great sense of humor.

He is survived by his loving wife, Kris. Together they raised four children: Blake (Danielle) Ward, Alyssa (Matthew) Rasmussen, Cameron (Cara) Ward, and Craig Ward — along with his beloved fluffy white dog, Dash. He is also survived by his favorite little people, his five grandchildren: Layla, Myles, and Sawyer Rasmussen, Cade, and Shaye Ward, and a sixth due in August, Cam and Cara’s baby girl Ward.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at Wildwood Barn & Cottage, N915 Witt Lane, Waterloo, WI, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.