Philip Steele Ward, Sr.

Beloved father, Philip Steele Ward, Sr, 93, of Asheville, passed away peacefully Tuesday, May 31, 2016. Philip was one of four children born to the late Ruby (Smith) Ward and Harry Steele Ward in September, 1922. He was raised in Benton, PA, and also spent a lot of time on the eastern shore of Maryland. As a young man, he ran a charter fishing business, and a period of time in the Coast Guard during WWII, and later earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at the University of Denver. While in Colorado, he met his lovely bride, Carol Grismer, whom he married in 1951. Philip spent over 50 years in the food service industry, including senior leadership positions at the corporate level. Upon retirement, he and his wife moved to the mountains of western North Carolina. He was an avid golfer and poker player. He also loved to read and was a wonderful cook. He is survived by his three children, Gail Lindahl Ward of Asheville, NC, Susan Carol Ward of Candler, NC, and Philip Steele Ward, Jr. and wife Neale of Idaho and their children, Jesse (and wife Kimmy), and MaryCarol. Philip will be buried next to his wife at Calvary Churchyard in Fletcher, NC. His children and grandchildren will always cherish his memory. We deeply appreciate the care provided to him by Givens Healthcare Center over the last four years. Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian is assisting the family.