John Paul Ward, 78, passed away Friday, March 26, 2004, at his home in Freeland. He was born in Alameda, Calif., on Sept. 6, 1925, to parents Paul and Ruby, who came from the Netherlands.

After finishing high school, Mr. Ward was playing baseball with the Alameda Class A midwinter league and was discovered by a scout for the Cleveland Indians. He signed up with the Indians at the age of 18 in 1943, starting a five-year career in pro and semi-pro baseball leagues. He was farmed out to other teams such as Wilkes Barre and the Baltimore Orioles.

In his mid-20s, he accepted the position of vice president of sales for Jaymar-Ruby Inc., working with them until retiring in 1985. He was loved by many of his business associates and had a loyal following with the junior salesmen he mentored. Eventually, Mr. Ward and his wife, Dodi, moved to Whidbey Island in the spring of 2001.

He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Dodi; stepchildren Shari S. James and John S. James; and grandchildren Jordan Boyer (Dria), Jessica James and Kirk James. Private services will be held with his family at a future date.

According to his family, Mr. Ward had a great sense of humor and will be missed by many. In remembrance of friendship and living each moment fully, he wants you to take someone you love out to dinner.