Jerome "Bud" Ward of Carlisle Twp. was born in Slavic Village October 28, 1934, the youngest of (7) children, he attended St. Stanislaus Elementary and High School. He then went to the University of Dayton where he played football, winning many accolades including second team All American. Bud was drafted as a fifth round redshirt pick as a junior by the Washington Redskins. After a serious injury, his pro career ended but he never lost his love for sports. He went on to play on several Muny championship teams and many softball championships with Teamster's 293. Bud is survived by his wife of 23 years; Carol, step daughters; Roberta Kalfas Moro (Bill) and Karen Kalfas Stolarski (Jim), beloved grandchildren; Andrea, Ashlee, and Dustin Stolarski, Kylee Demagall, Madison, Rae, and Codie Moro, children; Kathryn Hess, Jerome J. (Margaret), Susan and the Late Robert (Amy) and last but not least his beloved Weimy; Molly. Friends may call 4-8 PM Friday February 8, 2013 at The Laubenthal-Mercado Funeral Home and Cremation Service 38475 Chestnut Ridge Rd. (at State Rt. 57) Elyria (440)322-4626 where closing prayers will be at 9:30 AM Saturday. Funeral Mass 10:00 AM Saturday February 9, 2013 at St. Mary Church 320 Middle Ave. Elyria. Rev. Fr. Charles Diedrick, Pastor will be the Celebrant. Burial will be private. Memorial contributions in Bud's memory can be sent to The Gathering Place 800 Sharon Dr. Westlake, OH 44145. Online condolences can be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com Service: 10:00 Am Saturday February 9, 2013 St. Mary Church 320 Middle Ave. Elyria, Ohio Visitation: 4-8 PM Friday February 8, 2013 Laubenthal-Mercado Funeral Home 38475 Chestnut Ridge Rd. Elyria, Ohio