Michael David Ward

Michael “Mike” Ward, age 80, of Lakeville, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at home on October 6, 2026.

Mike was born May 13, 1946, in Bertha, Minnesota, to Robert Ward and Aletia (Anderson) Patri. He grew up with his sister, Pat, on the family farm near Staples, Minnesota. A farm boy at heart, Mike’s roots stayed with him throughout his life, and he never lost his love of farming or hard work. Mike spent his career in the insurance business, but the greatest joy of his life was his family. He adored his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and was immensely proud of each of them. He shared more than 51 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Patti, whom he cherished deeply.

Mike will be remembered for his deep faith, generous heart, strong work ethic, wonderful sense of humor, and, most of all, the extraordinary love he had for his family. He was always laughing or telling a “dad joke,” and he rarely let a conversation end without telling you how much he loved you.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Ward and Aletia Patri.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Patti Ward; children, Renee Ward, Stacy (Phillip) Kjelland, Kari (Michael) Bauer, and Brandon Ward; grandchildren, Zachary, Taylor, Drew, Beck, Avis, Finn, Grace, and Everett; great-grandchildren, Carson, Camden, Camilla, and Iver; sister, Pat Schultz; and many other relatives and friends.

A Celebration of Mike’s Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, October 12, 2026, at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion Street, Hastings, Minnesota, with a visitation from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the service with an ice cream sundae reception to follow.