Historic Career Celebrated: Dave Ward Honored at Houston Church Event
Houston’s St. Martin’s Episcopal Church hosted a significant event on Friday. The community gathered to pay tribute to veteran news anchor Dave Ward. This ceremony honored his long-standing legacy and commitment to Houston.
Honoring a Community Legend
Dave Ward, known for his warm presence, passed away at the age of 86. He was a beloved figure in local journalism for over fifty years. Many attended his funeral service, which was open to the public, providing an opportunity for fans and friends to celebrate his life.
Memorable Attendees
Familiar faces from the ABC13 network turned out in full force. Some notable attendees included:
- Tom Koch
- Don Nelson
- Ted Oberg
Dave’s close friends and recognized Houstonians served as pallbearers. Among them were:
- Houston Mayor John Whitmire
- Former Houston Astros first baseman Jeff Bagwell
- Attorney Tony Buzbee
- U.S. Ambassador to Italy and Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta
- Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick
- Former ABC13 meteorologist Tim Heller
- Investigative reporter Wayne Dolcefino
- ABC13 anchor Tom Abrahams
- ABC13 reporter Bob Slovak
A Last Farewell
During the ceremony, attendees heard a final message from Dave through a recorded goodbye. This personal touch resonated with those who had followed his career.
The day prior, many honored his memory at a public visitation held at George Lewis and Sons Funeral Directors. In tribute, ABC13 displayed memorabilia that celebrated Dave’s remarkable journey in journalism.
Legacy of Love and Connection
Dave Ward began each newscast with his signature greeting, “Good evening, friends.” This phrase encapsulated his connection to the viewers and his deep love for the city of Houston. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations in the field of journalism.
As the community reflects on his profound impact, it is clear that Dave Ward’s contribution to Houston will never be forgotten.
