August 1943 was so long ago, storks still left babies on doorsteps according to Peggy H. Ward. That’s when Peggy was delivered to Othel and Goldie Forrester in North Platte, Nebraska where she remained until she relocated to Iowa in the early 1960’s. North Platte is where she learned about love for family, faith, and the importance of lifelong friendships. She also learned to love trains and Sand Hill Cranes during her years in North Platte. Peggy was a shy and quiet little girl but grew into an outgoing, adventurous, hard working, and friendly lady who was loved by more people than she would ever know.
On February 10, 2024, the world lost this beautiful soul. Peggy leaves a legacy of love for both her family and friends. Her family was her greatest joy. She was never happier than when the house was filled with her children and grandchildren. For nearly 30 years before his passing, her husband, Tom Ward, shared the same love for family. The loss of her youngest daughter, Moni Gaukel (Erich) was her greatest heartbreak. Steve Kosbau (Bonnie), Camie Stamper (Tim) Dru Ward (Bruce), Randy Ward and the Gaukel family will carry on her legacy of love for family. She will be missed greatly by her grandchildren Timothy, Owen, Natalie, Hanne, Geneva, Leo, and Lindsey (Kyle), as well as many nieces and nephews.
From an early age, she made friendships she would foster for a lifetime. Her childhood friends and high school classmates continued to call her until the last days of her life. In each phase of life, she would effortlessly attract new friends making each one feel welcomed and special.
It was a common Sunday afternoon to find Peggy making a big bowl of popcorn or fresh bread while enjoying cards with grandchildren. She used the time around the table for more than just playing cards. She took the opportunity to share life lessons. She taught them to be master’s of common sense and to always be aware of their surroundings. Even in her last months, she was teaching her grandchildren the secrets to a great batch of bread so they could carry on the tradition as she did for her mother.
Peggy took many opportunities to serve in the community throughout her lifetime. She served on committees at the River Front YMCA for many years and treasured the experience. Some of Peggy’s closest friendships were people she met there. She also served in leadership roles in her PEO chapters as well as in scouting and church positions over the years. Peggy was selfless and giving soul.
Throughout her lifetime Peggy had many adventures. She enjoyed scuba diving, skiing, flying an airplane, and traveling. Her 80 years were filled with adventure! As much as Peggy enjoyed adventure, she also appreciated quiet moments reading a good book or being in nature. She was a lover of flowers, birds, and trees. A quiet morning on the porch drinking coffee and watching birds brought her great peace.
Peggy’s wonderful sense of humor was appreciated by those around her. In recent years she attended an annual “unsynchronized swimming party” where everyone swam in tutus and wore swim caps covered in flowers. She enjoyed wearing fascinator hats, accessorizing outfits to look her best, and sharing her happiness with those around her.
Peggy will forever live in our hearts. Her family and friends will continue to think of her through acts of kindness and friendship.
Peggy Ward will be honored in a memorial service at Plymouth Church, 4126 Ingersoll Ave, Des Moines, IA, on April 2, 2024, at 11:00. Later, on May 18, 2024, there will be a festive celebration of Peggy’s life, with details to be shared soon on Peggy’s Facebook page.
