1963
2016
Ward T. Fitts, 53, of Dansville, was called home in the early morning of December 24, 2016 following a year long battle with cancer. Ward was born in Royal Oak, MI, August 19, 1963 and the family moved to Dansville in 1968. Throughout Ward's school years he was involved in sports, served as Drum Major in the Dansville High School Band and was second of three in his family to be awarded the John Phillip Sousa Award, recognizing superior musicianship and leadership in the band's graduating class. Ward went on to serve in the U.S. Army, 3rd Infantry's famed "Old Guard" Fife and Drum Corps in Washington D.C., achieving the rank of Sergeant before returning to Michigan upon completion of his enlistment in 1985. Ward was a loving and devoted son, brother, father, uncle and friend, spending the better part of the last five years of his own life close by his parents' sides throughout illness and complications in their final years. Ward worked as a retail Manager at the West Lansing Wal Mart Superstore where he was admired and respected by his peers, superiors and subordinates alike.
Ward was preceded in death by his parents, William and Nancy Fitts of Dansville and is survived by his son, Alex, 22 of Dansville, Four Brothers; David, 63 of Owosso, Michael (Carol), 60 of Charlotte, Steven (Jennifer) 51, Chief Master Sergeant, USAF, currently serving at Hickam AFB, Hawaii, James (Shelly), 45 of Grass Lake and seven nieces and nephews.
Ward was known for his sense of humor, quick wit and love of life and people. Underneath his whimsically sarcastic demeanor, perhaps only seen by his family and closest friends, was a loving, humanly vulnerable, deeply feeling and caring heart of gold. He will be sorely missed.
Per Ward's wishes, memorial services will be delayed until the spring, when cremains will be interred near his parents in Fairview Cemetery in Dansville. In lieu of flowers or other condolences to the family, it is Ward's wish that donations be offered in his memory to St Jude's Children's Hospital.
The family is being served by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, Ball Dunn Chapel. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.grbdmason.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
August 13, 2017
Tim Grubaugh
I remember Ward as he assisted his brother David with our band camp back in the summer of 1983. He had such a cool spirit, and his encouragement helped me a lot as I took the skills learned at Smith-Walbridge into my senior year of high school at Springport. A Great guy!!!
July 12, 2017
My Condolences to Wards family he will be truly missed by all who new him
L. Connor Dansville, MI
January 6, 2017
Jan Rexford
I remember how good he was to me when I returned to work after a nine month medical leave. He said several times that he was glad I was back and especially that I was alright. I was glad that he was the overnight manager when I returned because he actually knew me before the medical crisis I went through. It made my transition back to work much easier.
December 29, 2016
Taune Beiser-DeBolt
My condolences to you all. I will always remember Ward as our fun- loving drum major at school, and for the several times we all went to the roaring 20s for pizza. Heaven has gained a good soul.
December 29, 2016
Myra Watts
My condolences to the family.. I worked at walmart with Ward for almost 9 years..We shared alot of fun conversations as well as sad ones.. He was a great person and a great manager.. He will be truly missed
December 28, 2016
Robin Sanders
I am so lucky to have met Ward I will never forget his laugh. His personality was one of a kind. He will truly be missed.
December 28, 2016
Dena Ellis
"I have been so blessed to have known such a wonderful man, we shared many conversations at the end of his shifts. He was always so warm hearted with a firmness when needed. I will always cherish our friendship. Thoughts and prays go out to the family."
December 27, 2016
Diana Jacob
He was a truly wonderful man. He will be greatly missed.
December 24, 2016
James & Dot Fitts
So deeply sorry.
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