Obituary of Ernie Ward

Ernest “Ernie” J. Ward, 78, passed away March 24, 2024 at Wynn Hospital surrounded by his loving family. 

Ernie was born September 2, 1945 in Utica, New York. He was the son of the late Ernest F. Ward and Marion (Plunkett) Ward. Ernie grew up in Clark Mills where he was given the nickname “Skip”. He graduated from Clinton Central Schools in 1964. After high school Skip enlisted in the United States Marines, serving our country during the Vietnam War.  He went on to work for the Rome DDSO. 

In 1982, Ernie married the love of his life Denise Jaeger before building their life together for 41 years in Westmoreland, NY. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather with a passion for hockey and dirt track auto racing. While growing up Skip enjoyed playing hockey at the Clinton Arena and over the years he continued to love watching the Clinton and Utica Comets. Every spring and summer if the cars were racing you could find him at the Utica Rome Speedway enjoying the action . He also looked forward to taking family vacations to Lake George every year. 

He will be missed dearly by his loving wife, Denise; his daughters Colleen Ward and Amber Jaeger; his grandchildren Jacob Jaeger-Mathis, Skyler Hagood and Raelyn Mathis; his sister Betty(Tom) Chamberlain; his nieces Christine and Melissa; as well as by many extended family and friends. 

Ernest will be laid to rest at the Stockbridge Cemetery on Tuesday April 2, at 11 am with military honors. 

Arrangements by Owen-Pavlot & Rogers Funeral Service, Clinton.