[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 160 (Wednesday, December 12, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1916]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     HONORING THE LIFE OF JEAN WARD

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MARCY KAPTUR

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 12, 2012

  Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, during the Christmas Season we remember 
people far and near and reminisce about those who are no longer with 
us. I rise to remember Jean Ward, who passed from this life on July 16, 
2012.
  Jean Ward was born in Detroit, Michigan on March 8, 1934 to Clarence 
and Agnes Ward. He graduated from Michigan State University and served 
in the U.S. Navy. Together he and his wife Jean raised five daughters. 
His family was most precious to him.
  Jean worked with the City of Toledo in forestry, and then began a 
career with the Toledo Area Metroparks. He became the Metroparks 
Director in 1985 and served until his retirement after 35 years in 
service to the organization. During that time he was Founding Director 
of the Stranahan Arboretum. His tenure brought a growth which 
established the Toledo Area Metroparks as a hallmark of our region. 
Jean Ward was ``an ambassador of conservation. He had a passion and a 
dedication to protecting, preserving and improving natural areas for 
all to enjoy.'' His legacy will last through the ages. His 
extraordinary efforts brought him statewide recognition when, in 2009 
he was inducted into the Ohio Parks and Recreation Association Hall of 
Fame and later received a Lifetime Achievement Award.
  I was privileged to work with Jean through many years of shared 
public service. Though he will be missed by all whose lives he touched, 
his spirit carries forward in the natural beauty his efforts enshrined 
for generations to come.

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