Robert Roch Ward

Robert Roch Ward, 73, of Chesterfield, VA, died Friday, May 31, 2024. He passed away peacefully after a long battle with cancer. He was born and raised in New Orleans, LA, and resided in Chesterfield, VA, for the last 25 years. He graduated from the University of New Orleans in 1972, with a B.S. in Chemistry.

He worked at E.I.DuPont for 30 years, developing new products and creating new applications in the Lycra® and Nomex® businesses. He loved the challenge of optimizing products for new applications. He enjoyed teaching customers how to use these products, frequently traveling abroad. He was awarded four patents during his career.

Robert was a man with many interests, but was devoted to his family and friends. Holidays and weekends were spent with those he loved and sharing all his experiences and numerous jokes.

In his retirement, he pursued his interest in woodworking, teaching himself how to construct beautiful wooden keepsake boxes and furniture. Delicate inlay work became his trademark. These items were given lovingly to family members and close friends.

Robert spent much time playing golf at the Highlands Golf Club with Coach's Group and the MGA. He loved the competition and the camaraderie, and frequently provided explanations of the finer points on golf rules.

He was a longtime member of the Highlands Nifty Fifties Plus, volunteering for the annual Highlands Massey Tournament for many years and other community activities.

He also enjoyed travel to the National Parks and to Europe with his wife and friends to enjoy nature, history, and culture.

Robert is preceded in death by his parents, Edward Ward and Mildred Roch; his brother, Edward Ward, Jr.; and his brothers-in-law, George Zimmer, Jr. and Leonard Wilfert. He is survived by his wife of nearly 52 years, Mary Zimmer Ward; his five sisters, Geraldine Ward, Kathleen Montz (Robert), Mildred Chatagnier (Rene), Helen Ward, and Jean Ward Lopez (John); his four sisters-in-law, Theresa Wilfert, Geralyn Suhor (Gerry), Barbara Sicard (Paul), and Ida Zimmer; and 19 nieces and nephews.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Covington, LA, on Saturday, June 15, 2024, at 11:00 AM. Visitation with family and friends will begin at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow services at St. Joseph Abbey in Covington. Memorial services will also be held in Chesterfield, VA, at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations should be made in memory of Robert and all cancer victims to VCU Massey Cancer Center, Box 980214, Richmond, VA 23298-0214.