Seaside

1933 — 2023

Kenneth John Ward Jr., of Seaside, died peacefully at home on Dec. 14. He was 90 years old.

Ken was born in Highland Park, Illinois, and was preceded in death by his sister, Valerie Medve.

A beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, he is survived by his wife of 67 years, Sharon; his two half brothers, John B. Ward (Debbie), of Lake Forest, Illinois, and Jeffrey C. Ward (Julie), of Hailey, Idaho; his children, Kenneth J. Ward III (Lynn), of Corvallis, and Lynne Johnson, of Santa Maria, California; along with his four grandchildren, Kelsey Ward, Jane Ward Baunsgard, Parker Johnson and Miranda Johnson; and his constant companion, his rescue dog, Scout.

Ken and Sharon met and married in Palos Verdes Estates, California, in 1956. After attending college at the University of Southern California and the University of California, Santa Barbara, Ken had a long and illustrious career in advertising, marketing and sales management focused on the food and drink sector at several companies across the U.S.

In 1987, Ken and Sharon returned to the West Coast, to Seaside, where they owned and ran a bed-and-breakfast for 10 years.

After retirement, Ken was active on the Seaside Budget Committee, and worked tirelessly for the Seaside Museum & Historical Society as a docent, board member, vice president, president and general handyman.

Ken was known for his stories about the corporate world, his experiences as an innkeeper and his great love for dogs.

At his request, there will be a private family gathering to remember his wonderful life.