David Ward

David Merle Ward of Espanola went to be with the Lord on Sunday January 6, 2008. A New Mexico resident for over 50 years, Dave was a well known radio voice in Gallup, Farmington and Santa Fe. Dave and wife Wanda have lived in Espanola for 27 years where he operated his Specialty Advertising business and was a member of the Chamber of Commerce. Dave was born in Braman, OK in 1928, and was raised in Potwin, KS. He was a member of the US Marine Corps 1946 through 1950. Upon release, he attended Kansas State University. Dave is survived by his wife of 49 years, Wanda. He is also survived by son Terry Ward and wife Penny of Houston, TX; son Russell Ward and wife Donna of Silver City, NM; daughter Melody Springer of Rio Rancho, NM; and son David C. Ward and wife Linda of Albuquerque, NM. He is also survived by 9 grandchildren Matthew, Talia, Aaryn, Karlen, Richelle, Michael, David Merle II, Steven and Christopher Jason; and three great-grandchildren Noah, Lorenzo and Isabella. Dave is also survived by sister Dorothy Neil of Eugene, OR; sister Helen Schumacher of Bourbon, MO; brother Albert Ward of Whitewater, KS; brother Bob Ward of Rosalia, KS and brother Otis Ward of Dixon, IL. The family would also like to recognize the special and loving relationships that were held with close family friend Patrick Norris of Espanola; treasured friend and business partner Eliot Kohen of Santa Fe; and brother in Christ Ron Pomeroy of Espanola. A memorial service is scheduled for 10:00 am on Saturday January 12, 2008 at the First Baptist Church in Espanola. Dave will be laid to rest at the National Cemetery in Santa Fe. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to a hospice care facility of your choosing. The Rivera Family of Block-Salazar Mortuary. Telephone (505) 753-2288 or 1-800-443-4854.