Franklin Spencer Ward

Franklin Spencer Ward, 67, of Dowagiac, MI passed away Thursday, July 20, 2017 at his home. A Celebration of Life Service will be held 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, July 26, 2017 at Silver Creek United Methodist Church, 31994 Middle Crossing Rd., Dowagiac with Pastor Sara Carlson officiating. Friends may visit from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. Tuesday, July 25, 2017 at Clark Chapel and Cremation Service, 405 Center St., Dowagiac. Memorials may be made to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan or the Beckwith Theatre. Those wishing to share a memory of Franklin online may do so at www.clarkch.com Franklin was born January 7, 1950 in Flint, MI to John & Thelma (Henderson) Ward. He graduated from Midland High School in 1968. Franklin served his country in the United States Navy from 1974-1978. On May 29, 1982 he married Gail Barlow-Langer in Dewitt, MI. Franklin was the manager for the Secretary of State License Bureau in Dowagiac for many years. In his spare time he enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing and was an avid University of Michigan Fan. He was active and supportive with his children’s activities. Franklin was an active volunteer with Hospice and the Beckwith Theatre. Franklin is survived by his wife Gail Ward; children Shawn (Mary Anne) Ward, Benjamin (DeAnna) Ward, and Brynn (Dan) Ruffin; grandchildren Grant Randelle Ward, Miles Matthew Ward, and Mara Mae Ward; and brothers John (Joyce) Ward and Larry (Barbara) Ward. Franklin was preceded in death by his parents and brother Bob Ward.