The hockey world and the Calgary community are mourning the loss of Randy Ward, a former Denver Pioneers defenseman, who died on May 9, 2025, at the age of 78.
His wife, Marilyn Ward, shared the heartbreaking news on May 15 via a touching Facebook post.
Many friends, family members, and fans shared their love and condolences.
Randy’s life was a mix of sports achievements, business success, and a strong commitment to his family and interests.
His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched.
Randy Ward was born to parents Larry and Joy Ward on January 25, 1947, in Calgary, Alberta.
Raised alongside his brother, Larry, Randy grew up with a love for the outdoors and a competitive spirit that would define his life.
His early years in Calgary helped him connect deeply with the land. This bond grew stronger through his farming work and his love for nature.
Randy Had An Impressive Hockey Career At The University Of Denver
Ward attended the University of Denver, where he studied accounting and marketing.
In addition to his studies, he also got involved in hockey.
From 1966 to 1969, he donned the crimson and gold of the Denver Pioneers, playing as a defenseman with grit and heart.
Over three seasons, he appeared in 84 games, tallying 46 points with 12 goals and 34 assists.
Remembering 2x National Champion Randy Ward (1968 & 1969).https://t.co/K8kHgjX2QC
— Denver Hockey (@DU_Hockey) May 21, 2025
His contributions were pivotal in leading the Pioneers to back-to-back NCAA National Championships.
In 1968, Denver shut out North Dakota 4-0 in Duluth, Minnesota, and in 1969, they edged out Cornell 4-3 in a thrilling match in Colorado Springs.
Denver has memorable moments in its hockey history, and Randy’s contributions on defense were significant.
After hanging up his skates, Randy poured his energy into his other passions: farming, business, and the great outdoors.
He served as the Calgary Branch Manager for Manpower Temporary Services for four years, during which he won several awards for increased sales.
At that time, the business specialized in temporary office and administrative personnel and light industrial temporary help.
He served as the President of Diversified Staffing and PEO Canada from 1978 until his death on May 9.
A gifted cattleman, he ran a successful farming operation, specializing in Simmie Fleckvieh cattle, which he loved dearly.
His entrepreneurial spirit shone through in his business experiences, where he approached every challenge with the same tenacity he showed on the ice.
Randy’s love for the outdoors was endless.
He hunted and fished across North America, finding solace in nature’s beauty.
An avid golfer, he was known for setting course records and sinking holes-in-one with a grin that lit up the fairway.
Whether he was casting a line, tending to his cattle, or teeing off, Randy lived life with enthusiasm and joy.
Randy Was A Man of Compassion And Connection
He was a beloved husband to Marilyn, a devoted father to his sons Jeff and Andrew, and a doting grandfather to Kalen, Keira, Declan, and Liam.
His warmth and generosity touched everyone he met, from lifelong friends to strangers who quickly became friends.
His philanthropy showed his commitment to giving back, particularly to causes that supported youth and community resilience.
Tributes poured in after his passing, each one a proof of the man Randy was.
Cathy Gotfried wrote on social media,
“Randy was truly a one of a kind man and loved you so much. My heart goes out to you and your family. Sending you all love and strength as you start a new life journey without your beloved husband, father and grandfather. ❤❤❤”
Via Facebook
Jim Eubanks called him “a living legend” and an inspiration to his cattle community.
“INDEED A BEST GREAT LIVING LEGEND THAT I NEVER KNEW IN THE BOOK OF LIFE. KNOW KENT WHAT A INSPIRATION TO ME AND MY NEW CATTLE FAMILY YOU BOTH ARE .”
Via Facebook
Randy was preceded in death by his parents, Larry and Joy Ward, and his brother, Larry. He leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and inspiration.
His compassion and dedication left an unforgettable mark on his family, friends, and community.
Those who knew him will remember his infectious smile, competitive spirit, and ability to make everyone feel valued.
A memorial service to celebrate Randy’s life will be held on Monday, May 26, 2025, at 2 p.m. MT at Eden Brook Funeral Home, located at 24223 Township Road 242, Calgary, AB T3Z 3K2.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Randy’s honor to The Summit: Marian & Jim Sinneave Centre for Youth Resilience at the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation, a cause close to his heart.
Rest in peace, Randy. Your legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew you.
