Evelyn Ward
Evelyn L. Ward, 102, of Greeley, died March 2, 2023, in Greeley. Evelyn was born Feb. 17, 1921, in Denver to Martinus and Nellie (Edson) Olson.
She attended school in Amherst and graduated from Phillips County High School in 1938. She went on to receive her bachelor’s degree in home economics from Colorado State University in 1942. She later completed her education at the University of Northern Colorado with a master’s degree in food science and nutrition.
Evelyn married Harold Jessen in 1944, and he died in 1948. She married Leslie Ward on July 15, 1950, in Greeley.
Her first job was as a home economics teacher in Haxtun. Evelyn later worked for Weld County Department of Social Services as a case worker from 1970-1983. In later years, Evelyn started a scholarship for deserving students at CSU.
She was very active with several organizations in the area. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church and the United Methodist Women’s Group and was a Sunday school teacher. She was a 4-H leader, served on the Board of Directors for Habitat for Humanity and received an award for achieving 15,000 hours of volunteer work for RSVP Volunteers in Service. She also made over 100 quilts for people impacted by Hurricane Katrina.
She is survived by her children Marlene Waltz and husband James of Evergreen, Greg Ward and wife Karen of Greeley, and Nancy Knight and husband Keith of Evergreen; eight grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her first husband Harold Jessen; second husband Leslie Ward; brother Donald Olson; and grandson Kyle Ward.
Evelyn had many accomplishments throughout her life. Besides being involved in her community and church, she most enjoyed spending time with her family. She leaves a legacy of love, compassion and devotion for her children and grandchildren.
A Life Celebration was held March 11 at First United Methodist Church in Greeley. Interment followed at Sunset Memorial Gardens.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, MDA.org. Friends may send condolences to the family at adamsoncares.com.