Joseph W. `Joe` Ward
Joseph W. `Joe` Ward , Age 90
Joseph W. Ward, age 90, of Baraboo, became history on Wednesday, February 28, 2024 at St. Clare Hospital surrounded by loved ones.
Joe was born March 2, 1933 in Baraboo, the son of Henry and Madeleine Ward. Joe was the oldest of two boys and grew up in North Freedom. Joe learned at an early age to be independent and work hard. He often talked about his paper route, fishing with the POWs, working at the Warren Hotel in Baraboo, hopping the train and ice skating on the Baraboo River.
Joe started his career as a machinist for Flambeau and in 1967 started his own business, Del-Tool Co. Inc, in Wisconsin Dells. The shop was moved to Baraboo in 1973 and was located in a small building on Camp Street. A larger shop was built on Sauk Avenue in 1988 to accommodate their growth in business. Joe retired in 1995 and the Brinker family acquired the business that is still going strong to this day.
Joe didn’t slow down after retiring. He became passionate about local history. Joe began researching Baraboo and Sauk County and subsequently created a series of history books for Baraboo and North Freedom. These books can be viewed at the Baraboo Historical Society. Joe also created several history time lines that can be viewed in different buildings around Baraboo including the park shelter at the Maxwell- Potter Conservancy. Joe was an avid collector of old tools. He also wrote a book about North Brothers Manufacturing, the inventors of the ratcheting screwdriver.
Joe was very proud to be the recipient of the Canfield Award in 2007 and the Gem Award in 2016. In 2015 Joe and his wife Lou Ann donated playground equipment at the Maxwell Conservancy playground. Joe not only loved history in Sauk County, he loved his family and friends more. Joe always had a joke, a funny story (that he probably already told you) and could tell you about every commercial building in Baraboo.
Joe is survived by his wife Lou Ann of Middleton; sons, Wayne (Sheryl) of Madison, Bryan (Joyce) of Baraboo, Jody (Jana) of Wisconsin Dells; grandchildren, Chris (Lori) Burdick of North Freedom, Bryan Ward Jr. of Huntsville, AL, Shelby Ward of Palm Springs, CA; great grandchild, Elana Burdick of North Freedom; brother, Jerry Ward (Jan) of Baraboo and several fond relatives on his wife’s side. Joe was preceded in death by his parents.
Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday March 6, 2024 at Redlin-Ertz Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers and donations, Joe would want you to spend time at the Sauk County Historical Society or the Baraboo Library, reading about local history.
The family would like to thank SMM Hospice, St. Clare Hospital Staff and Meadow View Memory Care for their exceptional care and kindness.
Condolences
Teresa March 01, 2024
Niece North Freedom , Wisconsin
I have fond memories of cookouts and canoe rides on the Wisconsin River when Uncle Joe had a home on River (?) road. I remember my father and Joe leading a horse while I sat a top. They were deep in conversation and did not notice that the saddle had slipped down around the belly..😳..with me still on it (horse had a blow up while saddle was being fastened) I remember your requests for me to sing after dinner. You helped me get my first car so I could attend my college courses without worrying about how I would get to school the next day. And I very muched enjoyed when you came down to my job at the BP and chat about my CNA courses and such. I will put my memories of yiu into my wonderful memory box that I keep tucked away in a special place in my heart. â¤ï¸ Teresa M Ward-Witt
Ray Schyvinck March 01, 2024
Friend Wisconsin Dells , Wisconsin
Joe 's SPIRIT, has moved on to his next stage. Leaving us all with a little piece of him to last forever. Time to entertain the other Angels in Heaven. (His jokes were always shorter & better than mine! ) Ray Schyvinck
Julie Keller March 04, 2024
friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
Joe was such a sweet, kind gentleman. I was always so glad to see him, and he always had something interesting to talk about. So glad to have known him.
DJ Parsons March 04, 2024
Friend Zionsville In 46077
Stood up at Joes first wedding and is a friend of Lou Ann - would like Lou Ann’s address if possible. Sorry for your loss - I enjoyed knowing Joe
Robert and Janis Cada March 05, 2024
Friends of Jody Wisc Dells , Wisconsin
My condolences from Janis and I. We both worked with Jody in Law Enforcement for many years. Joe had a wonderful life and worked very hard for himself and his family. I never met him but we are impressed with his biography. Condolences to Jody and all Joe's family.
David & Kristine Cushman March 06, 2024
Cousin Earlysville , Virginia
We will miss you, Joe. Thank you for your life, wit and wisdom. If Shirley and Royce were alive today, I am sure they could share many, many stories of your journey. Rest in peace. David and Kristine
Laura Joswick March 06, 2024
Friend Lowell , Wisconsin
Sending prayers for healing and comfort at this difficult time to the Ward family. May you be comforted by the many warm thoughts of those who care.
Penny Quandt March 07, 2024
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all and this most difficult time.Bless you all.â¤ï¸Den and Penny
JR COLVIN March 14, 2024
Friend Reedsburg , Wisconsin
Just learned of Joe's passing. He was a great toolmaker, friend and leader. I am proud to have served an apprenticeship at Del-Tool. Take care during this time.