Claude Andrew Ward of Reed City made his way home to his Heavenly Father on November 5, 2024.  He was 64.

He was born on October 14, 1960, in Reed City, and graduated from Reed City High School in 1979.  Claude was married to Nancy Snyder on September 4, 1982 and she survives him, his loving wife of over 42 years.  They met as teens and spent treasured times together sharing may common “country” interests.

He became a licensed realtor at the age of 18.  Soon afterward he bought the Hitzemann Realty, rebranded, and founded the Hometown Realty, which became a prominent operation expanding over 45 years.  As owner-broker, he was a trusted businessman and consistent award-winning sales leader.  He also led a full complement of successful realtors.  From early on, Nancy worked side by side with Claude as an integral partner in every facet of operations.

Claude enjoyed many interests, especially the great outdoors.  High on his list was the annual cross country ski party, camping, hunting, fishing, boating, and being around the campfire playing music with Nancy, friends, and family.  Claude loved bluegrass and country music and taught himself to play songs on almost a dozen instruments, keeping a close connection to his hospitable hillbilly roots.  He was a gifted award-winning horseman in his early years, and later, he and Nancy always kept and enjoyed a pet dog.

Claude will be lovingly remembered for his contagious high-spirited laugh, musical picking and grinning, and his comic ability to finesse any story.  He left this world a better place as a dearly loved man because he extended generosity and a helping hand to so many of his family and friends.  Forever, he will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife Nancy; sister Geneva (Dave) Backstrom, brothers Ken (Deb) Ward, Lonnie (Rosemary) Ward; sister-in-law Veronica (Cliff) Ward-Good.  Additionally, Claude is survived by brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Mike (Judy) Snyder, Deb (Brian) Crafts, Dan Snyder; and scores of beloved nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, the late Lester and Mary Ward; his brother Jim Ward; father-in-law and mother-in-law, the late Clair and Jane Snyder; sister-in-law Anne (Snyder) MacKenzie, and brother-in-law Steve Snyder.

A private family Celebration of Life was held from 1:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. at the Depot in Reed City on Sunday, December 8, 2024.  A Celebration of Life Reception for family and friends was held at the Depot in Reed City from 4:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M. on December 11, 2024.  Appetizers and beverages will be served.