Dr. Ronald Burton Ward

Dr. Ronald Burton Ward, age 78, of Millersport, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 3, 2016 at the Selma Markowitz Care Center (operated by Hospice of Central Ohio).Ron was born October 1, 1937 in Ironton, Ohio to the late Everett Campbell Ward and Gertrude (Flemming) Ward.Ron was a 1955 graduate of Ironton High School. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree from The Ohio State University in 1959 and his D.D.S. in 1963 from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry.A veteran of the United States Air Force, Ron served in the Dental Corp from 1963-65 in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, holding the rank of Captain. He was a member of the American Dental Association, the Ohio Dental Association and the Columbus Dental Society.For 47 years, Ron was in private practice on the east side of Columbus and in Pickerington. Following his retirement in 2010, and until his illness, he enjoyed working as a substitute dentist in many offices in Central Ohio and surrounding areas. He served as a mentor for young dentists and as a model man for his many friends.The world has lost a great man. Ron was beloved by his family and friends and by all who were privileged to know him. He was a gentle man who always greeted everyone with a smile and a kind word. His success can be measured by the many people who called him friend.He is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Karen (Purdy) Ward, whom he married July 26, 1979; step-daughter, Barbara Hoffmann of Orient; daughter, Christina Dunagan of Upper Arlington; son, Tod Ward (Felicia) of St. Augustine, Florida; grandchildren, Jared Barker, Cadyn and Carson Dunagan, Amy, Cameron and Zachary Ward; sisters-in-law, Mary Kay Purdy of Dublin and Doris Sis Ward of Hebron; brother-in-law, John Purdy (Sharon) of Blacklick; and many nieces and nephews.In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Genevieve Hafle and Marguerite Hartwig; and a brother, Gerald Ward.At his request, no formal service will be held but a celebration of his life will be held at a later date.Memorial contributions may be made to the Foundation for Hospice of Central Ohio.Hoskinson Funeral & Cremation Service in Kirkersville is honored to care for Ron and his family.