Ward Ireland Jr.

Ward Nathan Ireland Jr. of Fruitland, son of Ward and Sarah Cato Ireland, born March 2, 1943, in St. Louis, departed this life Tuesday, Nov. 9, 2021, at the age of 78.

Ward and Nelda Roe were married March 20, 1971. She survives.

Four children were born from their union, Michael Ireland of Jackson, Debra Ireland of St. Petersburg, Florida, Steven (Julie) Ireland of Rome, Georgia, and Cathy (David) Keith of Jackson. Ward had four grandchildren, Breanna and Nathan Ireland and Kaitlyn and Olivia Keith. Also surviving is a sister, Helen Ireland of Cape Girardeau.

After graduating from Woodland High School, Ward served as a civil engineer in the Air Force from 1961 to 1966. He later worked as a fire-sprinkler fitter through Local 669 for 40-plus years. Ward also owned a body shop in Cape Girardeau.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau.

Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home, with the Rev. Troy Richards officiating. Entombment will be at Cape County Memorial Park Mausoleum in Cape Girardeau.

Memorial contributions may be given to Fruitland Area Fire Protection District Firefighters Fund.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.