Obituary of Thomas D. (Bud) Ward

Thomas D. (Bud) Ward, 93 passed away peacefully on December 8, 2023. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Phyllis A. (MacDonald), his parents, Serenus and Marie Ward, sisters Margret M. (Kudritz) and Mary F. (Bartosik), brother Joseph M. Ward, and son James Ward. He is survived by his brother John P. (Jack) Ward and also by his children, Thomas (Terry) Ward II, Barbara Ward (Chris Rice), Anne (Harry) VanBuskirk, Kathleen Ward, Pamela Rutland, Michele Ward, Marisa Ward, and Michael Ward; along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Bud was a graduate of Binghamton North High School and honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy in 1954. He started his career at IBM that same year. During his 30 years at IBM, he continued his education by taking college courses in advanced mathematics and engineering at SUNY-Binghamton and advanced through many engineering and management levels until his retirement in 1984 as a Senior Engineer. Anyone who knew Bud, knew of his passion for adventure and the outdoors. He didn't just participate in outdoor activities he mastered them. Skiing was one of his passions and he ensured that his wife, Phyllis, and their children skied almost every weekend the slopes were open (and sometimes when they weren't). He was also a member of the Greek Peak Ski Patrol for almost 20 years. Many memories surround Bud and Phyl going skiing in the Rockies and the mountains in Europe. He loved to hunt and fostered the love of hunting in his sons, daughters, and grandsons who continue to bring venison to their dinner tables every year. While he loved to fish almost anywhere in New York State, he was known to have fished in Canada, Colorado, Florida, South Carolina, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Alaska. Anyone who could keep up with him would enjoy activities like biking, camping, sailing, rock climbing, wind surfing and hiking. With what Bud learned about carpentry from his father, he built a house for his family. He also used that same talent to assist many family members and friends in remodeling their homes. Bud has left his mark on this world and challenges us to enjoy life to its fullest. A celebration of life is planned for July of 2024 at Hickories Park, Owego, NY.