Rita Mary-Ellen Ward, lovingly known as Mary-Ellen, was born on September 27, 1943, on Fort William First Nation. It was there that she met the love of her life, James Henry Ward. Together, they built a life filled with love, raising three wonderful children. Their journey took them west to Victoria, BC, where Mary-Ellen worked at Maplewood Poultry Farm, becoming well known for her exceptional processing skills.
In the late 1970s, the family returned to Thunder Bay, where Mary-Ellen continued her hardworking spirit at A&P until her retirement. She cherished life’s simple pleasures, spending time with family and friends who brought her endless joy.
Mary-Ellen passed away peacefully on November 14, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. She especially adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, always delighting in cooking for them—particularly her famous “Mackys.” She loved playing bingo, trips to the casino, playing cards, and hosting sleepovers filled with laughter.
She is survived by her daughter Paulette Ludwigsen (Ron), sons Jim Ward Jr. (Grace) and Kelvin Ward (Mary), and her beloved dog, Taco. She also leaves behind 18 grandchildren, countless great-grandchildren, brothers Len Pelletier, Martin Bannon (Debbie), Tim Bannon (Karen), sister Cindy Bannon, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Mary-Ellen was predeceased by and reunited with her loving husband of 65 years Jim Ward Sr., along with her father Francis Pelletier, mother Lyla Bannon, father-in-law Martin Ward, mother-in-law Martha Ward, brothers Thomas (Butch) Pelletier and Bruce Bannon, and sisters Barbara LeGarde, Claudette Orwick, and Janet Bannon.
Prayers will be held at Blake’s Funeral Chapel on Monday, November 18, 2024. The funeral service will take place at St. Anne’s Church on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at 11:00 am, followed by interment at Immaculate Conception Cemetery in Squaw Bay. A Feast will follow at the Fort William First Nation Community Hall.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all the doctors and nurses at TBRHSC from Trauma 2, ICU Room 8, and 2A-222 for their exceptional care. Special thanks also go to all the family members who supported them during this difficult time.
In lieu of flowers, donations to TBRHSC would be greatly appreciated.
On-line Condolences may be sent to www.blakefuneralchapel.com
