Terence “Butch” K. Ward, of Swanville, Maine, passed away on June 4, 2026. He was born on October 1, 1961, to George B. Ward and Carolyn E. Ward.

Butch lived a life marked by dedication, strength, loyalty, and an unmistakable sense of humor. He proudly served his country in the Maine Army National Guard from October 2, 1980, until his honorable discharge on July 1, 1989. Stationed in Belfast with the 262nd Engineer Battalion, he served as a Motor Transport Specialist and attained the rank of Sergeant (E-5). The values of service, commitment, and perseverance remained with him throughout his life.

Following his military service, Butch worked for many years at the Bucksport paper mill until its closure. A hardworking and strong-willed man, he earned the respect of those around him and was known for his quick wit and ability to make people laugh.

An avid outdoorsman, Butch found some of his greatest happiness in the Maine woods and on its waters. He loved hunting, fishing, and especially ice fishing during the long Maine winters. Whether he was in a deer stand, casting a line, sitting in an ice shack with family and friends, or simply enjoying the peace and quiet of the outdoors, he felt most at home surrounded by nature.

Butch was also a devoted NASCAR fan who faithfully cheered on his favorite driver, Elliott Sadler, in the No. 38 car. One of his favorite traditions was the annual boys’ trip to Loudon, New Hampshire, where he shared weekends at the racetrack with family and friends. Those trips created countless memories, stories, and laughs that will be cherished for years to come.

Whether it was a day outdoors, a weekend at the races, or relaxing with family and friends while enjoying an ice cold Budweiser, Butch appreciated life’s simple pleasures and the people who shared them with him.

Above all else, Butch was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.

He was predeceased by his father, George B. Ward; his brother, Thurlow “Ted” Ward; and his dear friends, Alan “Al” Shultz and Everett Nickerson.

He is survived by his loving wife, Donna Ward; his mother, Carolyn E. Ward; his children, Chris Ward and wife Kimberly, Corey Ward, Felicia Ward, Kelly Ward and wife Amanda, Terra Basil and husband John, and Trevor Ward and wife Carly; his stepchildren, Scott Clark, Amber Clark, Justin Clark, and Nicole Lovely; his cherished grandchildren, Aidan, Dominic, Hailey, Jaxon, Autumn, Finnley, Lucas, Dawson, and Denali; his brother, George “Ben” Ward; his sisters, Valerie Fongeallaz and husband Richard, Vanessa Moran and husband John, Yvonne Beals and husband Jeffery, Lavern Ward, and Belinda Greenleaf and husband Butch; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

As we say goodbye, we take comfort in knowing that Butch’s legacy lives on in the family he loved, the friendships he cherished, and the memories he created. We will think of him with every cast of a fishing line, every quiet morning in the woods, every race on Sunday, and every cold Budweiser shared among friends. A proud Sergeant, devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, Butch leaves behind a life well lived and a family who will carry his memory forward with love. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever in our hearts.

We love you, Dad. Always have. Always will.