William Thomas Ward
February 9, 1939 - January 15, 2023
Bill passed away peacefully at the age of 83, at home surrounded by family. A native of Philadelphia, the son of James and Rose Ward, he was born in Swamp Poodle, and raised in a three-room row house in Olney. When Bill was four, his mother passed away, a tragic event. Through strong family support, especially from his grandmother and aunts, he experienced a happy childhood with his brother Jim, and their much loved devoted father and extended family. Bill attended La Salle High School. After that, he was accepted at Drexel Institute of Technology, where he joined Lambda Kai Alpha Fraternity, thoroughly enjoying his college years. He graduated with a degree in Commerce and Engineering.
Initially, his career began in Philadelphia with Smith Kline and French. After a few years, taking a risk, he left for California with his young family to grow a start up company, Cambridge Computer.
Following a divorce, he met Cindy Yoshifuji and they married. Bill was hired at the dental insurance company, California Dental Service, which later became Delta Dental Plan of California. He rose to the position of President and CEO in 1992. In that position, he (well-respected among his peers and employees) grew the company and created an enterprise before retiring in 2001.
During his employment, Bill was President of Delta Dental Plans Association, board member of Dental Lifeline Network, and member of Bay Area Council.
During retirement, Bill and Cindy joined Silverado Country Club where they enjoyed playing golf with friends and family. Their passion was also travel, taking them to Europe, Asia, and South America.
Bill is predeceased by his brother, James Ward. He is survived by his wife, Cindy, his three daughters-Colleen Ward, Sheila Hesting (husband David and grandson, William), and Heather Viotto (husband Matt and grandsons-Domenic and Lucas).
A private funeral mass will be held on February 4th. A Celebration of Life will be held in the future for family and dear friends.
In Lieu of Flowers, contributions may be made in Bill’s memory to St.Jude’s Research Children’s Hospital.