Zachary Ward

Zachary Allen Ward was brought into this world and our lives on May 7,1988 and peacefully transitioned to his final resting place on August 5, 2024, at the Mayo Clinic hospice in Rochester, Minn. 

Zach battled brain cancer over two decades, some years ferociously fighting, numerous other years he so peacefully lived one forgot cancer was part of his story. While his life was shorter than we all wished, he made the most of each day he had with his love, determination, steadfastness, strength and dedication to everything and everyone he encountered. His lighthearted and caring nature was evident when he played games, teased others and worked to be a peacemaker. With an adventurous spirit, he loved exploring nature, and with his astute sense of humor, he treasured movies and jokes. Not many could have given so much to life. He would not let limitations stop him and he moved through and beyond them with grace and thankfulness. Most of all, he lived by faith, always putting God first as he made decisions throughout his life.

Zach was born and raised in the St. Louis, Mo. area and loved all things St. Louis, he has numerous treasured friendships that lasted from childhood into adulthood, not many are blessed with the close relationships Zach formed and adventures had. Zach married Mariah (Arnburg) April 14, 2010 and they had the opportunity to travel the world, live in several spots around the country, and truly enjoyed the best that life had to offer. At Zach’s insistence, they usually always ordered dessert. Zach completed his B.S. in Theological Studies in 2014 from Southeastern University, in Lakeland, Fla. Zach’s professional life included several roles from bookkeeping and teaching, to completing his clinical hours for chaplaincy with the VA. In 2021, Zach and Mariah started their family with the addition of Bracyn James, and later, Wynter Rae. Words can’t describe the love and devotion he had for his family, which was evident in every action he took. He wholeheartedly poured his time, effort, love and values into his family to ensure they will feel his adoration forever and carry on his legacy. While we will all try our best to pass along to his children the knowledge and understanding of what a strong, caring and tenacious man Zach was, as the Bible states, in the blink of an eye his children and loved ones will be with him again. 

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Mariah Ward (Arnburg); children Bracyn James Eugene and Wynter Rae Madelynn Ward of Clear Lake; parents James Sheridan, Jennifer Sheridan, and Heath Ward; grandparents Pat Declue, Debbie Washburn, and Tom Goforth; siblings Leah, Corey, Jordan Sheridan and Taylor and Abby Ward, all originally of greater St. Louis, area; beloved aunt and uncle, Heather and Bret Burroughs of Orlando, Fla.; in-laws, Scott and Kelli Arnburg of Clear Lake; brother-in-law, Tyler (Caitlin) of Ankeny; grandma, Connie Arnburg, of Decorah. Several beloved extended and step-family members and friends like family, all dear, but too numerous to name. Zach is preceded in death by his grandfather, Russel Washburn and grandmother, Betty Goforth of St. Louis.

A service was held for friends and family to remember Zach on Saturday, August 17, at Harvest Bible Chapel in Clear Lake. Visitation was held from 12:30-2 p.m., with a celebration of life taking place at 2 p.m.

Those wishing to express their sympathies through a card or memorial in Zachary Allen Ward’s memory may wish to direct them in care of the Family of Zach Ward, P.O. Box 224, Belmond, IA 50421.

Andrews Funeral Homes is in charge of arrangements.