GOSHEN-Lonnie D. Ward, 76, passed away October 10, 2025, at St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis.  He was born September 15, 1949, in Hayti, Missouri. 

  He was preceded in death by his father, Lonnie Ward, mother, Gearlene (Pruiett) Whittmore, his first wife, Sherry Ward, and a brother, Donnie Ward.

  Surviving is his wife, Karen Ward, 3 children, Bradley (Karen) Ward, Jennifer Ward, Jonathon (Amy) Ward, 2 stepchildren, Dawn Dull, Wesley (Amy) Rhoda, 13 grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren.  Also surviving are 3 siblings, Kenneth (Debra) Ward, Brenda Edwards, Wanda Miller, and numerous other family members.

  Lonnie was a conductor at Conrail for many years.  He appreciated and collected old cars, especially hot rods.  He was a member of the Heart City Street Rod Club and Northside Baptist Church.  He enjoyed fishing, shooting, mowing his yard, and having bonfires.  Lonnie loved his family and grandchildren and touched many lives.

  Per his wishes cremation will take place and there will be a memorial service Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 3 p.m. at California Road Missionary Church.

    Memorial contributions may be given to may be given to Ascension St. Vincent House Foundation.

Elkhart Cremation Services has been entrusted with the arrangements.