We are saddened by the passing of Norfolk Lion Jim Ward. In addition to being a Lion since 1996 and a lifetime member, Jim was a Professor of Political Science at the University of Massachusetts Boston, was the author of two books, and was very active in the Norfolk community. A kind soul, Jim was a Lion at heart and true leader within the club.
James F. Ward of Norfolk, Massachusetts, passed away on May 2, 2021, after a long illness following a stroke.
Born in Jackson, Michigan, on March 10, 1947, Jim is survived by his wife Barbara Ostlund Ward (whom he married August 28, 1971), daughter Sarah Ward, son Samuel Ward, and daughter in law Christina Ward, all of Norfolk.
Jim received his BA from Adrian College, MA from the University of Michigan, and his PhD from Harvard University where he won the Bowen essay prize for political philosophy and the Bowden essay prize. During his career as a Professor of Political Science at the University of Massachusetts Boston, he was the author of two books, Language, Form, and Inquiry: Arthur Bentley's Philosophy of Social Science and Heidegger’s Political Thinking and edited Political Science: Ancient and Medieval Political Thought. He served on the executive committees of the New England Political Science Association and the Northeastern Political Science Association.
In his early years Jim was a saxophone soloist with the Southeastern Massachusetts Community Concert Band and encouraged his children as a member of the King Philip Music Association. Jazz music was a lifelong love, as well as modern British classical composers.
As a couple, Jim and Barbara bred and exhibited their nationally ranked Australian Terriers at American Kennel Club Dog Shows. Later, his entire family devoted itself to Pekingese rescue dogs.
Jim was a member of Christ the King Lutheran Church of Holliston where he served as a Sunday School Teacher and on several boards. He enjoyed participating in the Hockomock YMCA Arthritis Foundation Pool Class for the many friendships he made (as well as the breakfast parties after class). He spent many happy summers on Lake Ossipee, Freedom, NH, at Wabanaki Campgrounds.
Jim served on the Town of Norfolk Advisory Committee for many years. He was a longtime member of the Norfolk Lions Club and after his stroke was sponsored as a Lifetime Member.
A memorial service will be held at Christ the King Lutheran Church (600 Central Street, Holliston) when large gatherings become possible. Burial will take place in the Norfolk Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, Jim’s family has asked for memorial contributions to the Norfolk Lions Club.
Comments