LTC Richard Franklin Ward Obituary

Respectfully known as a leader of men, LTC Richard (Rick) Franklin Ward, passed away at the age of 84 on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in Temple, Texas. Born in Arlington, Virginia on July 4, 1941, to Raymond and Henrietta Ward. After graduating from the Virginia Military Institute in 1963, he served 21 years in the US Army. Among his many assignments on active duty, he served 3 tours in Vietnam, 2 tours in Latin America, and numerous assignments stateside including Ft. Bragg, NC, Ft. Stewart, GA, Ft. Leavenworth, KS, and finally retiring from Ft. Monroe, VA. He was a proud veteran and had risen to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel by the time he retired in 1984. During his service he received numerous awards of distinction including the Purple Heart, Silver Star, Bronze Star, and the Army Commendation Medal. He was also an Airborne Ranger with distinction.

After his military retirement, Rick was an excellent Director of Sales, and Regional Manager, as well as a tremendous motivator of people. Rick married the love of his life, Carole Ann Keiter in 1963. They had known each other since they were children growing up in Winchester, Virginia. They celebrated 63 years of marriage in May of 2025. He and Carole have two children, eight grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. Besides dearly loving his family, he also had a soft spot for animals. Over the years he owned 3 Scottish Terriers, a Golden Retriever, many cats and three horses. Everyone who knew Rick knew how much he loved to read, study and learn new things, especially if it involved history. He loved his country and its history. Rick is survived by his wife Carole of Salado, Texas, his son Richard F. Ward, II and his wife Karen of Glen Rose, Texas, his daughter Kim Havelka and her husband Randy of Salado, Texas; his eight grandchildren Alice Hanson, Robert Ward, Ashley Giardiello, Virginia White, Anna Ward, Ryan Havelka, Caroline Ward, and Emily Havelka; his six great-grandchildren Titus, Beorn, Alistair and Aurelia Hanson, and Lancia and James Ward. Rick’s duty to his country and his family is now complete. His courage, loyalty and honor will not be forgotten. We love you Grumps!