Mary 'Janet' Ward, 91, of Rochester, passed on Sunday, June 28, 2026.
She was born July 15, 1934 in Akron, Indiana to Roger A. & Ruthanna (Davis) Parker. Her parents always used 'Janet' as her first name. She was born at home above her parents' Café. On June 29, 1952, she married Walter L. Ward in her parent’s home in Akron. He preceded her in death on Feb. 28, 1992.
Janet graduated from Akron High School in 1952. She worked with her parents and grandmother, Ruth C. Davis at the then Eat Rite Café throughout her school years and has always called Akron home.
Janet & Walt lived a few years in Akron & South Bend, but moved to Rochester in 1959. She worked at Karn Coffee Shop, Lakeside Inn, did alterations for Blumenthal's Dress Shop, Fulton Co. Housing Authority, and Webb's Family Pharmacy. She volunteered with the Woodlawn Hospital Auxiliary, Compassionate Health Center, and the Fulton County Community Center.
Having grown up in the Cafe, and later with other work, she knew many local people and always enjoyed being a help wherever she could serve others.
Janet cared for her family deeply and followed her children's activities whenever possible. This continued with the granddaughter's involvement in many local and school activities. They all brought joys and wonderful memories into her life.
She is survived by her sons Mike Ward and wife Terry Jo and Jeff Ward and wife Carol; grandchildren Ashlee Worrasangasilpa (Brian), Amie Jo Reichl (Ryan), Parker Huffman, and Katlyn Tack (Kory); great grandchildren Olivia Worrasangasilpa, Aiden Huffman, Camille Worrasangasilpa, and Benjamin Tack. Also surviving are her brother Gary Parker and wife Marsha, a niece, and a nephew.
Janet was preceded in death by her parents, husband Walt, and daughter Debora K. Huffman.
The funeral service will take place at 11:00 am, Tuesday, July 14, 2026 at Hartzler Funeral Home 305 West Rochester Street Akron, Indiana with Pastor Teri White officiating.
The interment will take place in the Akron Cemetery, Akron, Indiana.
Visitation hours will be held from 10 am to 11 am, prior to the service at the funeral home.
Memorials can be made to the charity of your choice.
