Michael Andrew Ward
Mike Ward loved a day spent with a fishing rod, especially if family and friends joined him.
Michael Andrew Ward, 60, a longtime resident of Moses Lake, Wash., passed away April 12, 2025, in Seattle, Wash., after facing ongoing health challenges with grace and strength. He was surrounded by loved ones, a peaceful passing for a life well-lived and well-loved.
He was born Oct. 26, 1964, in Richland, Wash., to Charles Edmund Ward and Kaye Lynne Ward.
Mike was a proud graduate of Perry Technical Institute in Yakima, Wash., where he earned his associate's degree in electrical technology. He worked as a construction electrician for the IBEW, a career he was dedicated to until his retirement in 2017. He served the trade with pride and commitment for over 25 years.
On July 19, 2003, Mike married the love of his life, Cheri Stegelmeier Ward, in Boise, Idaho. Their bond was one of deep love, laughter and mutual respect. Together, they created a life full of meaningful moments, shared dreams and great adventures.
Mike was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He had a sharp mind and a love of learning — he was the go-to guy for just about any question and knew how to fix just about anything. If he didn’t know how, he’d research it until he did. He was known for his hard work, quiet strength, and generous heart.
Hunting, fishing, camping with family and riding his Harley Davidson were some of Mike’s favorite ways to spend time. He especially enjoyed baiting hooks and riding 4-wheelers with his nieces and nephews and heading out on hunts with his brothers-in-law — moments he truly cherished.
Mike is survived by his wife, Cheri Stegelmeier Ward of Moses Lake, Wash.; his mother, Kaye Lynne Ward of Moses Lake, Wash.; his sisters, Kim (Jason) VanLaethem of Moses Lake, and Shawna (Kelly) Reeves of Kennewick, Wash.; his brothers- and sisters-in-law: Cody (Brenda) Stegelmeier and Cindy (Tim) Reinke of Idaho Falls, Idaho; Cathy Stegelmeier, Christina (Curtis) Hatch of Filer, Idaho; Chad (Desirée) Stegelmeier of Rigby, Idaho; and Curt (Britney) Stegelmeier of Ashton, Idaho; and many nieces and nephews who adored him.
He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Edmund Ward; his grandparents, Carmel and Neva Ward, and Don and Naomi Ray; as well as many aunts and uncles whom he cherished.
Services will be held as follows:
Friday, April 25th — Viewing from 6-8 p.m. at Kayser’s Chapel of Memories, 831 S. Pioneer Way, Moses Lake.
Saturday, April 26th — Funeral services at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Church, 351 Yonezawa Blvd., Moses Lake, beginning with a viewing at 1 p.m., followed by the funeral at 2 p.m.
Tuesday, April 29th — Graveside service at 11 a.m. at Pineview Cemetery in Ashton, Idaho.
Mike’s presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Please express your thoughts and memories at https://bit.ly/MAWARD1. Arrangements are under the care of Kayser's Chapel of Memories.