Chad Ward

Chad Michael Ward, age 57, passed away on October 11, 2025, in rural Barnsdall, Oklahoma. He was born on October 11, 1968, in Wichita, Kansas, to John Allen Ward and Susan Gayle (nee Foster) Ward.

Chad was raised by his dad and mother Rene in Lawrence, Kansas. He graduated from Lawrence High in 1987 and went on to pursue higher education at the University of Kansas. Chad's love for his Hawaiian culture and exploration later took him to the University of Hawaii, where he majored in International Business and Trade and minored in Hawaiian Cultural Studies.

Chad built a long and successful career in leadership and business. He worked for Hilti North America, ultimately serving as Regional Manager in North Florida. He then brought his skills and passion to Rexel USA in the same role. Most recently, he fulfilled his dream of entrepreneurship as President and Founder of FFI Marketing, which he launched in 2020.

On September 20, 2003, Chad married the love of his life, Kyann Wallerius. Though they later divorced, their time together remained a meaningful chapter in both their lives. In 2004 Krista Thompson gave Chad the great gift of his life, his daughter, his mini-me, Alexia. All the beauty Chad brought to this world will live on in her.

To know Chad was to love him. He was widely described as absolutely hilarious- no one could tell a story like Chad. His deep love for his Hawaiian culture shaped his spirit-he embraced ohana in every sense, treating friends like family and family like treasure. Chad loved the ocean, finding peace and purpose in the waves.

Chad could light up any room he entered, and his presence brought joy, laughter, and warmth to all who knew him. Chad's legacy is one of love, laughter, and loyalty. His spirit will continue to live on through the many lives he touched. Aloha, Chad.

Chad is survived by his loving mothers, Susan Stephens and Rene Ward; his beautiful daughter, Alexia Ward; his favorite sister, Virginia Thornton; and a large, loving family along with countless lifelong friends who will cherish his memory forever.

Chad is preceded in death by his father, John Ward; his brother, Seth Stephens; his uncle, Beckley Ward; his paternal grandparents, Mary (Kapoi) and Bill Ward, and his maternal grandparents Gene and Louise Wilder.

A Memorial Service will be held on November 8th at Set Em Up Jack's at 2PM in Lawrence, Kansas.

Memorial contributions can be sent to Stumpff Funeral Home in Bartlesville, Oklahoma.

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