Gerald Cleon Ward

Gerald Cleon Ward, known as Jerry or Cleon to his friends and “Kuncle” to his family, was born on December 9, 1940, in Owensville, Indiana and passed away surrounded by family on May 14, 2023.  He was the youngest of two children and his family moved to Poseyville during his elementary school years.  He was a graduate of Poseyville High School in 1958.

After graduation, Jerry joined the United States Air Force and spent four years assigned to different bases located in Greece, the Island of Crete and Alaska.   He loved the travel and cultures he was able to experience and has many photos of his time in the service.  After his tour of duty with the Air Force he moved to Wood Dale, Illinois and began working for TWA (the premiere airline of the time) at O’Hare Airport in Chicago.  Several years later Jerry transferred with TWA to Los Angeles International Airport.  TWA was purchased by American Airlines in 2001 and he retired shortly after the transition.  During Jerry’s long career with the airline, he enjoyed extensive travel and visited his family whenever he could. 

After retirement from the airlines, Jerry managed the large apartment building he was living in for over 30+ years and enjoyed the community and life-long friendships of the other residents.  He was highly respected and appreciated by both the management team and the tenants.

Jerry loved living in Los Angeles and was able to soak in the sun and waves at the beach often, especially the coastal sunsets.  He wanted to be remembered each time you see a beautiful sunset. 

Years later, as Jerry’s health became challenging, he moved to Roseville, California where his niece, Kimberly Reed Kunis, and her family, embraced and cared for him.  He quickly integrated into the busy household of seven and teased and laughed with the kids as only ‘Kuncle’ could do. 

Jerry is survived by his sister, Dixie Ward Reed, her husband, Dick Reed, and their daughters, Sherri Reed McInroy with husband Brad McInroy, children Kiley and Kevin McInroy, Kimberly Reed Kunis with husband Tom Kunis, children Austin, Tyler, Megan, Landon and Cooper Kunis, and Barbara Reed Bass, children Garret and Caleb Bass. 

The family will hold a private memorial in Alamo, California and a graveside service at Benson Cemetery near Owensville, Indiana on Thursday, June 8, at 11:00 for those who would like to attend.  Colvin Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements of Mr. Ward.

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