Robert Shawn Ward, 54

Robert Shawn Ward of Athol, Idaho went home to our Lord and Savior on January 7, 2013 at the age of 54.

Bob was born October 30, 1958 in Hollywood, Calif. to John Ward & Patricia Sorbel. Bob was the second born of four children. He attended Kennedy High School in Granada Hills, Calif. grades 9-11. Bob took much pride in serving our country and proudly joined the Marines November 7, 1975 as a 3rd generation 2nd Battalion 5th Marines . He was stationed in the Philippines on jungle patrol for 18 months where he graduated at George Dewey H.S. in Subic Bay P.I. and was honorably discharged as an E5 Sergeant Rifle Expert, November 6th, 1979. Semper Fi

As a young man Bob enjoyed racing dirt bikes with his big brother, Frank Ward, playing baseball with and coaching his little brother, Larry Price. They enjoyed saving their quarters for daily trips to the local batting cages, dreaming of the pros while going to many games at Dodger Stadium. Bob also enjoyed camping, fishing, hiking and just being outdoors.

Bob married the love of his life, Denise Ingle, October 6, 1979 in North Ridge, Calif. Bob and Denise were blessed in their early years with three daughters, Erica, Stacy and Paula, and 14 years later with their son, Shane. They moved between Idaho and California several times throughout the beginning of their marriage permanently relocating to Idaho in 1988. Bob and Denise have operated and successfully run their own propane company since 2002. They recently celebrated their 33rd wedding anniversary this last fall.

Bob deeply loved life, his family and friends and above all our Lord and Savior. He loved the outdoors, working in his shop, on his property, shooting his rifles, handguns, and reloading his own ammo while spending much time fishing and hunting with his son Shane, best friend Ron Reno and many others. He had a deep appreciation for great music, very much enjoyed reading his Bible along with other novels, and regularly going to the movies with family and friends. He loved his Sunday night football and his Seattle Seahawks…he was a 12th man! He loved educating himself on the things he was passionate about. He loved smoking his cigars and telling his tales in The Man Cave. He was known to make the best smoked fish and deer jerky throughout his life. He was a jack of all trades as there was not anything “Big Bob” could not fix or build. He took much pride in his family, everything he accomplished and was a role model to many with exceptional honor & integrity.

In his passing, Bob joins his father, John Ward, mother, Patricia Sorbel and step mother, Betty Ward.

Bob is survived by his loving wife, Denise Ward, their four children; Erica Brunko (and Brad), Stacy Ward, Paula Ward (and Brandon) and Shane Ward; his step-father Jerry Sorbel; his brothers and sister, Frank Ward, Larry & Diane Price and Julie Ward; his grandchildren Destiny, Makkaylah, M’Kenlee, Christian, Ariel, Atarrah, Malachi, Charles, Milaina and baby girl to be Bobbi Jo. He is also survived by his mother-in-law Opal Ingle, his brother-in-laws and sister-in-laws, Dan & Donna Ingle and Doug & Nancy Ingle along with nephews and niece, Nathan, Matt, Amanda, Chris, Cody and Parker.

He will be deeply missed by all of his family and friends and will always be held dear to our hearts. We Love You Always and Forever!!!!

A memorial service will be held at Emmanuel Baptist Church, located at 3115 N. 15th Street in Coeur d’Alene on Saturday, January 19th at 11:00 a.m. Will be a reception to follow.